The Weeknd must not sleep often because he is always taking on a new challenge or responsibility. This year, he has released Dawn FM, developed a television series and toured North America. With all that he has going on, he has not stopped his philanthropic efforts. This week, the United Nations revealed that The Weeknd’s XO Humanitarian Fund has raised $5 million to combat world hunger since its launch in March.
“We are deeply appreciative and humbled by The Weeknd’s steadfast support, as well as that of his loyal fans and partners,” U.S. World Food Program President Barron Segar stated.
“Abel is an inspiration to us all, and through his efforts, thousands of families will have food security and hope for a better future.”
A major catalyst in The Weeknd’s philanthropic efforts has been his “After Hours” tour. Since its launch in July, the tour has taken a portion of its ticket sales and put it toward the fight against world hunger. Through these strategic efforts, the XO Humanitarian Fund has been able to provide emergency food assistance and nutritional support to malnourished children and pregnant or breastfeeding mothers in northern Ethiopia.
“On stage and off stage, The Weeknd is bringing hope and happiness to millions of people across the globe,” U.N. World Food Programme Executive Director David Beasley said.
“His inspirational XO Humanitarian Fund is a new dawn in the struggle to end global hunger at a time when we are seeing funding shrink and the threat of famine grow. As WFP’s Global Goodwill Ambassador, he is opening hearts and minds to our life-saving cause and offering millions the chance of a brighter tomorrow.”
