Michael Jackson’s estate pledged to donate $300,000 to help three different communities that have been affected by the coronavirus pandemic.
The late singer’s estate announced that they will be giving $100,000 each to Broadway Cares, Three Square Food Bank (Southern Nevada’s largest hunger-relief organization) and MusicCares.
“This virus strikes at the heart of the communities we are close to,” said John Branca and John McClain, co-executors of the Estate of Michael Jackson. “We learned today that the legendary Manu Dibango [a key influence on Jackson’s hit ‘Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’) passed away from the virus. Other performers and support staff in music and on Broadway are sick or have been left without work and are facing an uncertain future. And in Las Vegas, which has been so welcoming to Michael Jackson, the entire city has been shut down leaving thousands of workers and their families devastated and without an income.
“Michael’s spirit of generosity and helping others during his lifetime is legendary. These donations are inspired by him,” they concluded.
The donation to New York will assist hundreds of Broadway employees who are currently out of work. Additionally, the estate is planning for MJ the Musical later this year. “With every passing day that theaters remain dark, entertainment and performing arts professionals face unprecedented and immediate challenges,” said Tom Viola, executive director Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. “This incredibly generous donation from the Michael Jackson Estate will help ensure those onstage, backstage and behind the scenes get lifesaving health care, emergency financial assistance and counseling during and after this crisis.”
Michael Jackson’s estate donations will help provide 300,000 meals to those in need in Nevada. “Before the pandemic, 1 in 8 Southern Nevadans lived in a food-insecure household and that number will increase exponentially with the displacement of thousands of workers in our community. Thank you to the Estate of Michael Jackson for stepping up to help children, families, veterans and senior citizens who may need help now more than ever,” Michelle Beck, Chief Development Officer.
