Dave Boucher

USA TODAY NETWORK-Tennessee

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The Dollywood Foundation will donate $1,000 a month to "all of those families who lost their homes in the fires" for six months, the organization announced Wednesday night.

"As you may know by now, there have been terrible wildfires in the Great Smoky Mountains, the same mountains where I grew up and where my people call home," country music star and Dollywood co-owner Dolly Parton wrote in a statement. "I have always believed that charity begins at home. That's why I've asked my Dollywood companies ... to help me establish the 'My People Fund.'"

The Dollywood Foundation is accepting donations to contribute to the fund on its website, where more information will be available Friday.

At least seven people were killed by the wildfires that pushed into Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge on Monday and Tuesday. Officials said hundreds of homes and businesses were damaged or destroyed.

To donate, visit www.dollywoodfoundation.org.

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