Five former US presidents, Jimmy Carter, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama, have raised $31 million as part of efforts to raise money for victims of devastating hurricanes that had plagued the country in August and September.
The announcement came as the five former presidents attended a concert to raise additional funds for relief of the US states and provinces damaged by the hurricanes. The storms caused severe damage in Texas, Florida and US islands in the Caribbean.
The fundraiser concert, dubbed “One America Appeal,” was held at the College Station in Texas.
It saw the participation of music band Alabama, Gatlin Brothers and artists Lyle Lovett, Robert Earl Keen, Sam Moore, Yolanda Adams, and many others.
The concert, which was attended by over 11,000 people, was aired live on the internet and was broadcast by television and radio stations in the US and some countries around the world.
Obama praised the American people for their help after the horrific natural disasters. He said that the response to the storms showed the spirit of America at its best, where its people magnify their efforts and make outstanding steps.
Clinton said that “there were painful storms, one after the other," noting that important work still needed to be done.
For his part, and in a rare show of unity, US President Donald Trump praised the five former presidents.
In a video clip at the event, he thanked them and spoke about their efforts in helping to raise funds for the victims of the hurricanes.
