Throughout her career, Carrie Underwood has used tours to raise money for worthy causes. For her recent Denim & Rhinestones Tour, Underwood set aside $1 from each ticket sold for the Tower to Tunnels Foundation. The 43-city arena tour raised $420,316 for the cause.
A UMG (Universal Music Group) press release describes the Tower to Tunnels Foundation as "an organization committed to providing mortgage-free homes to Gold Star and fallen first responder families with young children, and building specially adapted smart homes for catastrophically injured veterans and first responders. Furthermore, the foundation is steadfast in its commitment to eradicating veteran homelessness and assisting victims of significant US disasters."
"We are overjoyed and profoundly grateful for this kind gesture," shared Frank Siller, CEO and chairman of the foundation (per the press release). "Carrie's substantial donation, supported by her loving fans, will directly influence the lives of many of our nation's heroes and their families. It will offer them not only financial assistance but a beacon of hope and a reminder that their sacrifices are recognized and honored."
"I'm so proud of the fans that came out to the tour and making this donation possible," Underwood added. "They have always shown up to support great organizations like Tunnel To Towers, making the world a better place while coming out to see us."
Instead of setting aside part of the donation for administrative costs, the foundation will spend 100 percent of the donation on veterans and first responders.
"This contribution transcends financial aid; it embodies compassion, unity, and patriotism," Stiller told NBC's Today on Thursday (Sept. 14) during a live appearance by Underwood. "We extend our deepest appreciation to Carrie and her wonderful fanbase. Together, they've forged a beacon of light, showcasing the profound impacts of kindness and charity."