LANSING, MI (WLNS) – Shelby Ann-Marie had her cowgirl boots ready to go when 6 News talked to her backstage Thursday afternoon.
She says she’s proud to represent her hometown of Portland Thursday night on stage. She hopes to represent her town off the stage too by raising money to help her community recover from a tornado which tore the city to pieces on June 22.
Shelby Ann-Marie hits the stage at Common Ground Thursday night.
But, the 17-year-old is also setting the stage for giving.
Weeks ago her hometown of Portland was left in ruins after a tornado torn through buildings, churches and houses.
Now the former American Idol contestant is hoping to help rebuild the city through music.
“The thing that obviously came to mind for me is throwing a benefit concert so we’ve announced that on august ninth we’re going to have that bringing in some other bands and things like that to really try to raise money to rebuild the town and do our part,” said Shelby Ann-Marie, country artist.
Ann-Marie is not alone.
Others like Tom’s Food Center in Portland are also raising money for the Portland Community Fund by collecting donations at the checkout.
“We love the Portland community. They’ve been so supportive of us over the years and it’s just another way that we can help give back,” said Steve Antaya, VP, Tom’s Food Center.
The store plans to match every penny donated through the campaign.
Whether it’s a big stage or a smaller one, the people of Portland say it’s important to come together and stay “Portland Strong.”
“I am Portland Strong I think the whole community really shows what that means,” said Shelby Ann-Marie.
Shelby Ann-Marie says the benefit concert will be held on August 9 at the Portland High School’s football field.
Tom’s food center will also be collecting donations for the Portland Community Fund through July 12.
