J. Cole is stepping up to make a difference, this time doing so to assist the communities impacted as a result of the aftermath of Hurricane Florence. The storm, which peaked as a Category 4 hurricane at its strongest, tore through his hometown of Fayetteville, North Carolina, this past week, causing grave damage alongside the Carolina coast.
According to reports, at least 37 people have died in storm-related incidents, including 27 in North Carolina, 8 in South Carolina and 2 in Virginia. Additionally, at the time of this report, 343,000 people are estimated to be without power, while over 19,000 people are living in shelters. While Trump has promised that “a lot of money” will be allocated to rebuilding following the devastation, J. Cole is taking an immediate stand and calling for action.
Through his nonprofit, Dreamville, the 33-year-old has launched a new campaign tailored to assisting in the recovery of his beloved hometown and the affected areas.
“NC has a special place in our hearts,” the nonprofit shared on social media on Thursday (Sept. 20). “The impact of Hurricane Florence has displaced families and caused unprecedented damage to Fayetteville. The Dreamville fdn. Is asking for help + share this so we can spread awareness to help the people of Fayetteville.”
According to the foundation’s website, donations will go toward “hot food stations placed throughout the city, temporary housing options for families, and stocking of food pantries/shelters,” as well as will assist local charities that provide various services to the residents of Fayetteville.
Prior to the storm’s arrival, J. Cole and his team were forced to cancel the weekend-long inaugural Dreamville Festival, citing safety concerns. It has since been rescheduled for April 6, 2019, with a full line-up to be announced at a later date.
To get involved with the initiative and learn how to donate, please visit the Dreamville Foundation’s official website.