McEntire, Shelton Hold Concert For Tushka Tornado Victims

News9.com

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Country music singers and Oklahoma natives Reba McEntire and Blake Shelton are using their star power to help rebuild the tornado-ravaged town of Tushka in Atoka County.

McEntire was born just outside of Kiowa. Shelton was born in Ada and currently has a home in Tishomingo.

"A lot of people lost a great deal in this disaster and it's particularly close to us because we both consider Oklahoma home," said McEntire. "We wanted to do something and let the people in Oklahoma know that we love them and we're praying for them during this difficult tragedy."

"Oklahoma defines who I am and seeing the effects this disaster has been on my neighbors, I knew I had to do something," said Shelton. "Reba and I have a lot of love for this state and we wanted to do what we can to help. This place is my home and these people are family to us."

The tornado roared through Tushka Thursday, April 14, killing two sisters and destroying homes and buildings, including the small town's school. The storm caused about $500,000 in damage.

McEntire and Shelton will host the "Tornado Relief Concert" on May 26 to raise money to help rebuild Tushka. The concert will be held at the Choctaw Casino Resort. Tickets went on sale May 6 at 10:00 a.m. and can be purchased online at the Choctaw Casinos Resort website, or over the phone at 1-800-585-3737.

In addition to the proceeds raised from the concert, a special mobile fundraising campaign has been set up with The mGive Foundation to raise funds for relief efforts. Fans can text "OKGIVE" to 27722 to make a one-time $10 donation which will be added to their monthly cell phone bill. Funds will be donated to The mGive Foundation for the benefit of the Tushka Disaster Relief Fund. Checks can also be made out to the Tushka Disaster Relief Fund and mailed to: 101 SE 1st Street, Tushka, OK 74525.