Katy Perry has shared details about her challenging upbringing as the daughter of devout Pentecostal parents, recounting times when her family had to rely on food stamps and food banks to make ends meet. Despite now being estimated at a net worth of $530 million, the 39-year-old singer opened up about her childhood struggles, including busking on the streets as a teenager to earn $20.

Reflecting on her modest beginnings, Perry expressed a desire to make a meaningful impact beyond her music career. In 2018, she, along with her older sister Angela Hudson Lerche, established the Firework Foundation to provide underprivileged children with access to the arts.

Angela, who serves as the foundation’s president, emphasized the importance of reminding kids that they, too, can overcome challenges. The Firework Foundation has impacted over 400 middle school children, offering them opportunities for songwriting, choreography, shoe design workshops, and even teaching Transcendental meditation for mental health management.

Katy actively participates in the foundation, engaging with the kids at Camp Firework and sharing her experiences with them. She hopes to inspire the campers by showcasing that, despite her success, she remains relatable and goofy.

The Firework Foundation supports young people throughout their educational journey, including initiatives like the Leaders in Training program, which partners with institutions like FIDM for design and LAAMP for music programs. Perry expressed gratitude for the impact the foundation has had on the children, acknowledging their challenging circumstances and aiming to show them a brighter future.

For Katy Perry, the Firework Foundation represents her dream of leaving a lasting positive mark on the world. She envisions a legacy where, even if her name or songs are forgotten in a hundred years, the impact of the Firework Foundation endures as a testament to fulfilling her purpose.