The Foodbank of Dayton is celebrating after a celebrity sparked a chain of donations on social media Thursday night. The money will support disaster relief efforts after Memorial Day's tornado outbreak in the Miami Valley.
The charity received more than $50,000 after comedian Mike Birbiglia encouraged other celebrities to donate on Twitter. Ben Stiller, John Legend, Judd Apatau, and Lin-Manuel Miranda gave money after being prompted by Birbiglia.
Thanks for replies on how to help tornado victims in #Ohio! So many great organizations helping out.
— Mike Birbiglia (@birbigs) May 30, 2019
Just gave $1k to Dayton Food Bank. (@thefoodbankinc) $1k goes a long way. $1k = 6000 meals.https://t.co/r8WyGgwvfE
Who will match this? RTing donations!! pic.twitter.com/XJojJ1Vzwc
“I was shocked and excited. I just kept refreshing the Twitter feed," says Lora Davenport with the Foodbank of Dayton.
Davenport says the money raised will support long-term recovery efforts, “Being able to help our neighbors in need in already an incredible experience, especially after seeings how many of our community members are volunteering and donating. But to have this on top of it is just the icing on the cake.”
The Foodbank is no longer in need of volunteers, but is still asking for donations of non-perishable food items for those affected by the storms.
@birbigs a huge “Thank You” from The Foodbank team! We cannot say it enough for all of the amazing support! We hope that you land in the Shrewsbury Hall of Fame for this (if you aren’t already in as backup right field for Economy Paint Supply)! pic.twitter.com/UabubleGwd
— The Foodbank, Inc. (@thefoodbankinc) June 3, 2019
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