Stevie Wonder benefit gig to raise funds for California wildfire victims and firefighters
The singer says he wants to help "those who have been so less fortunate, those who have lost their dreams, lost their homes".
Wednesday 28 November 2018 12:52, UK
Stevie Wonder has announced plans to raise money for those affected by the wildfires in California through his annual benefit concert.
The award-winning singer said he wanted to help firefighters and emergency services as well as victims of the fires, which have caused devastation across the state.
"Giving back, I think it's very important for us who have been fortunate to do something for those less fortunate," Wonder said.
"So not only am I going to do the House Full Of Toys event that we've done for now the last 22 years... but as well, we formed a foundation which is the House Of Hope to actually reach out and do our best to raise money for those that have been so less fortunate, for those that have lost dreams, lost their homes.
"So I am very happy to do this again this year but very, very, very excited to do something to help those in a bigger sense, the less fortunate.
"One of my family members almost lost their house in Calabasas. So I thank God and the weather for that not happening."
Wonder's House Full Of Toys benefit concert will take place on 9 December, with proceeds raised this year helping those affected by the fires.
Billed The Stevie Wonder Song Party: A Celebration of Life, Love & Music, it will be held at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.
Earlier this week, officials confirmed the deadliest wildfires in the state's history had been "100% contained" after burning for more than two weeks.
At least 88 people have died and rescuers are still searching for hundreds who remain unaccounted for.
Thousands of homes - including properties belonging to Miley Cyrus, Neil Young and Robin Thicke - were destroyed in the blazes.