The cast of " Glee " is lending their vocals to an unreleased song by Naya Rivera this holiday season, one that was written in honor of the late actor for a special reason.
"Prayer for the Broken" was first recorded by Rivera in 2012 and is now available to stream or download, featuring new backing vocals from " Glee" alums Kevin McHale, Jenna Ushkowitz, Amber Riley, Heather Morris, Vanessa Vocals by Lengies and Ashley Fink.
Proceeds from the song will go to Rivera’s favorite charity, Alexander House, which, according to the organization’s website, “provides safety and security for women and children on their journey from emergency shelter to financial stability and permanent housing. Supportive Housing”.
Vacation Miracle
The special release is part of the annual Snixxmas charity event. Rivera drowned in California's Lake Piru in July 2020 while boating with her then 4-year-old son, Josey. Months later, her relatives launched the campaign. She was 33 years old at the time.
“We couldn’t have asked for a bigger holiday miracle this year. Here’s an upcoming song from Naya Riveras’ music library,” Morris, who plays Brittany on “Glee ,” wrote in a Dec. 1 Instagram post. Release songs. “I’m so grateful to be part of the cast and sing background music behind my friend. "
McHale (aka Glee 's Artie) also referenced the "true Christmas miracle" in another Instagram caption, adding, "This year, let's celebrate the gift that Naya gave us, her ’s talent and her heart. This song has meant so much to me over the years, and now I hope it means the same to all of you.”
Talk to E! On December 1, Ushkowitz (Tina) chimed in: "It's a really special song and now we're going to have it and more importantly, fans get to hear her voice again."
a worthy cause
Alexandria House's Snixxmas fundraising page further states that "Prayer for the Broken" was released on December 1 and features songwriters Lindy Robbins and Isaac Hasson, as well as Rivera. Rivera's mother, Yolanda Previtire, gave her "blessing."
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"We hope 'Prayers for the Broken' brings you the same comfort it has brought us over the years - it is a poignant reminder of Naya's otherworldly talent and a heartfelt gift to keep us going through this Inspiring message to hear her voice again," reads a note on their website.
Rivera had been a "staunch" and outspoken supporter of the Los Angeles-based organization until his death. "My connection to [Alexandria House] and the people who live and work there has been the greatest blessing and has had a huge positive impact on me and my son," she wrote in February 2020. "We truly found a home away from home when we volunteered there."
The fundraiser runs for two weeks, and fans are encouraged to honor Rivera's memory by donating directly to Alexander House.