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Artist News
Jean defends his Haiti foundation
By CMU Editorial | Published on Monday 18 January 2010
Wyclef Jean has spoken out in defence of his previously reported Yele Haiti Foundation after a charity screening group raised concerns about the organisation’s accounting practices.
Their concerns were raised as many of Jean’s fans donated to the charity which is involved in the relief effort in Jean’s native country of Haiti following last week’s devastating earthquake. An Associated Press report claims that the accounts of the Foundation are closely intertwined with Jean’s business enterprises, which I think is generally thought of as a no no in charity circles, even if everything is legit.
But Jean hit out at those criticising his charitable organisation, especially at this time. He said in a statement: “It is impossible for me to even comprehend the recent attacks on my character and the integrity of my foundation. The fact that these attacks come as we are mobilised to meet the greatest human tragedy in the history of Haiti only serves to perplex me even further”. The former Fugee added that he had never personally profited from the Foundation, and in fact had donated large amounts of time and money to it.
In sort of related news, George Clooney and MTV have announced they will stage a benefit concert to raise funds for the Haitian relief effort which will air across the MTV network and a load of other US TV stations on Friday night.
Speaking to the Associated Press at the Golden Globes this weekend, the actor said that he hoped Bono, Sting, Justin Timberlake, Christina Aguilera and Alicia Keys would be among those to appear at the benefit. Recordings of any performances will also be sold via iTunes, he added. The Red Cross, UNICEF, Oxfam America, Partners In Health and Jean’s aforementioned Yele Haiti Foundation will be beneficiaries.
