Celeste Barber is the first recipient for 2020 of the prestigious Cybersmiler of the Month award from our friends over at Cybersmile.
Australian comedian Celeste decided to put together a fundraiser to support the New South Wales Rural Fire Service who have been tackling the absolutely devastating fires that have been sweeping across Australia.
Taking to Facebook Celeste encouraged her followers to give their support and contribute in any way they can to help firefighters and people on the ground.
Within a matter of hours of launching her fundraiser went viral. She started receiving an outpouring of support from fans, companies and public figures, all keen to contribute. A whole host of celebrities also encouraged their fans to support the initiative include Pink, Nicole Kidman, Natalie Portman, Lizzo, Selena Gomez, Metallica, Kylie Minogue, Kylie Jenner, Chris Hemsworth, Keith Urban, Ellen DeGeneres, Sir Elton John, Football Federation Australia and Netball Australia!
In total, more than $34 million in donations have been raised ($51 million AUD) for the New South Wales Rural Fire Service – a government-funded agency that is made up of volunteers – and the Brigades Donations Fund, which distributes charitable donations directly to fire brigades. Over 1.2 million people donated and over $1000 a second was pledged.
Funds raised will support Australia’s recovery efforts and help firefighters and volunteers on the ground take care of wildlife displaced by the sheer scale of the fires across the country, as well as support the families who have lost homes and possessions.
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