Willie Nelson to Play Benefit Show for West, Texas

(CNN) — The recent fertilizer plant explosion in West, Texas hit Willie Nelson close to home.

The legendary singer/songwriter hails from Abbott, Texas, not far from West in the central part of the state.

West, a small town with a population of 2,800, is still reeling from Wednesday night’s eruption. Twelve bodies were recovered at the scene Friday, but the exact number of casualties was unclear.

Nelson was already set to play a show in Austin, Texas, on April 28, and in the aftermath of the devastating explosion he’s turning the event into a benefit for West.

“West is just a few miles from my hometown of Abbott. I was born and raised here and it was my backyard growing up,” Nelson said in a statement. “This is my community. These friends and neighbors have always been and are still a part of my life.”

Proceeds from the show will now go to the West Volunteer Fire Department. Those who want to contribute can also visit Nelson’s website for more information on how to help.

“My heart,” Nelson said, “is praying for the community that we call home.”