“These are my people, and this is my home.” A Tribute to Dolly's Disaster Recovery Work

Dolly Parton never forgot where she came from. And when disaster struck Appalachia, she showed up.

After the devastating 2016 wildfires in Sevier County, Dolly established the My People Fund, providing direct financial support to families who lost their homes.

When Hurricane Helene brought devastating flooding and destruction to communities across the region in 2024, she showed up again, committing $1 million personally to relief efforts, with an additional $1 million committed through her businesses and the Dollywood Foundation.

Dolly understood that loving a place meant investing in its people, especially when they needed it most.
Today, Worthy Ground honors the life and legacy of an American icon, an Appalachian advocate, and a neighbor who never stopped showing up for her people.

We will always be your people, Dolly.

News soundbite from WATE 6 News.
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