Ed Sheeran donates over $1 million to local charities amid COVID-19

Ed Sheeran. Image: AP/Markus Schreiber

Along with the growing number of international musicians doing their part to help others amid the COVID-19 pandemic, singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran donated more than 1 million pounds or $1.24 million (over P63.44 million) to various relief efforts in the United Kingdom.

Sheeran gave the amount to a variety of local charities and a children’s hospital ward in Ipswich, Suffolk, where he is currently residing, as per The Sun last Tuesday, April 14.

“He has split a seven-figure sum between local charities to try to ease the strain on his local community,” a source close to Sheeran was quoted as saying. “Ed is very involved in the area and knows that his donations will make a massive difference.”

The “Perfect” singer also gave a “significant amount of money” to Ipswich Hospital, its chief executive Nick Hulme, confirmed via BBC yesterday, April 15.

Harry Styles, other singers help

For his part, British singer-songwriter Harry Styles has also begun a fundraising initiative by selling statement T-shirts that promote social distancing and advising people to stay indoors. All proceeds will be given to support workers battling COVID-19 and those people vulnerable amid the ongoing health crisis.

American pop star Lady Gaga, in partnership with the advocacy organization Global Citizen, has raised over $35 million to help with COVID-19 relief efforts. Singer and entrepreneur Rihanna also donated $5 million to various COVID-19 efforts through her non-profit organization, Clara Lionel Foundation.

Meanwhile, after singer Pink confirmed that she tested positive for the coronavirus, she announced that she was donating $500,000 each to two emergency funds. Cha Lino/JB

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