Tina Fey Helps Raise $115 Million To Help New Yorkers Impacted By COVID-19 In Virtual Telethon

On May 11, Tina Fey hosted a virtual telethon to raise money for New Yorkers affected by COVID-19. The telethon raised over $115 million and was organized by iHeartRadio and charity organization, Robin Hood. 

The hour-long event featured many celebrities including Mariah Carey, Jennifer Lopez, Robert Di Niro and Barbara Streisand. In an attempt to unite the New York community, Di Niro said, “our city is under attack, but we’ve been here before. In the last 20 years, both 9/11 and Hurricane Sandy. You can take your best shot but you cannot break our spirit.”

The donations that Robin Hood collects will go towards support for New York communities through food, shelter, cash assistance, mental health, legal issues and education. Fey said, “if you had breakfast today, you are better off than two million of your neighbors who work up hungry.” As the $115 million was raised, Fey said thank you to the viewers through tears. 

Carey performed her 1992 song, “Make it Happen,” as her backup singer and pianist performed form their own homes. Carey said, “we can make it through this together.”

Lopez introduced the PS22 Chorus, a group that is comprised of New York elementary school students. The chorus sang the song “Rise Up.” Lopez, who is a New York native herself said, “New York I know your strength.”

Several former New York Giants even participated int he telethon, including Michael Strahan, Eli Manning, Phil Simms and Justin Tuck, who announced a sweepstake competition. The winner and three friends would be able to play touch football against the player and get a Super Bowl Ring.

Spike Lee shared optimistic hope of sports returning, and Streisand expressed hope about the reopening of New York’s theater district.  

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