When they’re not starring in movies (or hilariously trolling each other on social media) Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds are using their power and influence to support important causes. This week, they’re on a mission to help immigrant children who are stuck in detention facilities across America.
The pair has announced a US $2 million donation to be split between the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund and the Young Center for Immigrant Children’s Rights. They’re both organisations working to support kids who’ve been separated from their families and are awaiting deportation.
“Over the last few years, our perspective has grown,” the celebrity couple says in a statement, “and we’ve realised we have to do everything possible to foster more compassion and empathy in this world.”
“History’s being written right now,” the statement continues. “We’re grateful to give back to organisations who give voice to so many.”
With their donation, the two organisations will be able to expand their work in advancing social justice and ensuring kids in detention have access to attorneys, social workers and other important figures.
“We are so deeply grateful for this extraordinary gift from Blake and Ryan,” says Maria Woltjen, Executive Director of the Young Center. “Children are escaping rampant violence and persecution to seek safe haven in the U.S. The Waymaker Fund for Immigrant Children, created with this gift, is needed now more than ever. We are so moved by Blake and Ryan’s kindness and generosity.”