A series of wildfires erupted earlier this month, primarily on the Hawaiian island of Maui. As a result of the flames, over a hundred people perished, and many were evacuated from their homes.
On August 31, actor Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson and talk show presenter Oprah Winfrey took to X and TikTok to announce the creation of ‘The People’s Fund of Maui, a fund putting money straight into the pockets of individuals who were devastated by the recent wildfires’.
However, the famous couple has received criticism from certain social media users.
Johnson sent a video of himself and Winfrey to X and TikTok, with the TV host saying that Dolly Parton’s generosity in her community prompted them to create the fund.
“As @Oprah has seen firsthand, the impacts of these wildfires have been devastating, and we’re here to ensure that your donations will go directly into the hands of Lahaina residents,” the caption reads.
Every adult resident of the affected area who lost their homes due to the Lahaina and Kula wildfires is eligible for $1,200 per month to support them during this period of recovery.
“All you have to do is apply at http://peoplesfundofmaui.org.”
“We are honored to launch this campaign with $10 million in funding, and we ask for your assistance in donating to those who have lost their homes.” We appreciate your gift in advance. Click here to learn more and donate.”
Celebrities can’t seem to get their feet right, but given Winfrey’s net worth of $3.5 billion and Johnson’s net worth of $800 million, folks were disappointed with the video.
“Oh please,” one X user wrote. We don’t believe you for one second. You wouldn’t be asking for money from us if you cared about Maui. You’d use your own. Your ‘question’ is quite telling.”
“So, instead of using their platform to shame a government into action, two MEGA rich people are asking poor and working families for charitable assistance. “Pathetic,” said another.
“Only $10 million?! If you each donate half a million dollars, or $5 million, Oprah will contribute 2% of her fortune. ” The Rock is donating 6% of his fortune.”
And finally, “I would, but I’m broke… But you two have this!”