Selena Gomez used her fourth annual Rare Impact Fund Benefit to deliver a simple message to young people struggling with their mental health: they deserve support. At the October 14 event in Los Angeles, the singer and actor told PEOPLE that the fund has raised more than $30 million, while describing the work on the ground as a source of deep pride.
Gomez attended the Hollywood Palladium benefit in an embellished red Prada gown. But her interviews on the carpet focused on what happens beyond the photographs: helping people find services, community and someone who will listen.
Selena Gomez celebrates Rare Impact Fund’s work
Speaking to PEOPLE at the benefit, Gomez said seeing programs reach young people was especially meaningful. The fund, launched alongside Rare Beauty in 2020, began with a goal of raising $100 million over 10 years. The more-than-$30-million figure is progress toward that goal, not money raised at this one event.
“It’s beyond my wildest dreams,” she told the outlet about the communities, programs and organizations the fund supports.
Her message to those who need help was direct: “You’re enough. Don’t think that you’re not worthy of the help.”
In a separate interview with Extra’s Terri Seymour, Gomez explained why she continues to speak openly. “Sometimes things look a lot shinier in pictures,” she said, adding that it is okay to feel not okay and important to know where to turn.
Benny Blanco and a quiet anniversary
Gomez also spoke about the support she receives in her own life. She told PEOPLE that she feels fortunate to have people she can call and talk to, including her husband, Benny Blanco.
The couple celebrated their first wedding anniversary in September. Asked by Extra about the occasion, Gomez said they ate a piece of cake and watched their wedding videos in pajamas. “We’re so cheesy,” she joked. Those comments were new at the benefit; the anniversary itself was not on October 14.
The evening follows another recent celebrity-backed community event: Beyoncé and her family’s appearance at the opening of Houston’s Knowles-Rowland House.
In the U.S., anyone experiencing emotional distress can call or text 988 for support. The featured image is an editorial illustration, not a photograph from the benefit. Read our Editorial Standards.
