Music legend and icon Missy Elliott returned to her hometown of Portsmouth, Virginia, not only to commemorate her own day in the city but also to give back to the place that launched her remarkable career. 

One year after the inauguration of her own day, Elliott came back on Tuesday for a special presentation at the Dr. O. Marriner Family Life Center at Grove Church, the oldest African-American Baptist church in Portsmouth. The icon donated $50,000 to the Portsmouth Redevelopment and Housing Authority, positively impacting the lives of 26 residents in need of housing relief funds. 

Elliott’s mother, who was present to support her daughter and witness the donation, also shared her story about the challenges and difficulties she faced while raising Missy. She emphasized her understanding of the significance of giving back to a community that had contributed so much to her child.  

Elliott stated, “Instead of it being a celebration of Missy Elliott, you know about me, I wanted to give back and let that be the celebration of Missy Elliott Day, just to show that I love everybody out here.” 

When the presentation concluded, the community welcomed Missy with open arms, and she felt the love from her state, the 757, the place she calls home. 

“I love my city. I love my state. I love everything about it,” she said. “Everything about Missy comes from here – the hospitality, the humility, the confidence – if you mess with me, it’s a problem. We’re sweet, but don’t try us.” 

Missy Elliott continues to make Virginia proud as she will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on November 3rd, and you can watch that exclusively on Disney Plus. 

Picture Credit: WAVY-TV10. Missy Elliot sharing inspiring words.