On Monday, former rapper turned country star Jelly Roll made his Canadian debut in St. Catherines, Ontario, at a benefit for the Heather Winterstein Foundation.
The Heather Winterstein Foundation was established following Winterstein's passing in late 2021. Winterstein, a 24-year-old, tragically died within 48 hours of being discharged from the hospital after seeking treatment for back pain and receiving Tylenol. Francine Shimizu, Winterstein's mother, says that the foundation advocates for marginalized Indigenous youth, similar to her daughter.
All proceeds from a sold-out show are being donated to the foundation. The foundation's initiatives include supporting programs that address mental health, addiction, protection against human trafficking, and providing scholarships for healthcare studies. Shimizu, who has Indigenous heritage and ties to Six Nations of the Grand River, believes that her daughter may have faced stigma and challenges in accessing healthcare due to her mental health issues, addiction, and experiences with human trafficking. Shimizu emphasized that Winterstein's struggles did not diminish her worth as a person, and the foundation serves as a means to prevent others from enduring similar hardships.
After the event, Jelly Roll made the short trip to Niagara Falls, specifically the Horseshoe Falls, where he was photographed with members of law enforcement. On social media, the Niagara Parks Police Service wrote:
"Never know who you will bump into! Sgt. Seaward and Cst. Campbell snapped a quick pic with the inspirational Jelly Roll at the Canadian Horseshoe Falls in Niagara Parks. The Falls were lit up in pink this week and the performer debuted in Canada with a sold out benefit concert in St. Catharines for the Heather Winterstein Foundation supporting Indigenous youth programming in Niagara!"
There is no doubt that Jelly Roll's involvement in the Heather Winterstein Foundation benefit, and the money raised from it, will touch the lives of young people who need it most. Roll back into Niagara Falls anytime!