Madonna Madonna has her charitable hat placed firmly on her head these days.

She's using it to help others...

And not just in Malawi.

Following her recent trip to the African country, where the queen of pop has a centre that aims to feed and educate over 30,000 orphans, Madge has parted with more money in a different part of the world.

Following the earthquake in Arbuzzo, Italy, which has devastated the region and caused the loss of life of over 200 people, Madonna made a "substantial donation" following an appeal by the mayor of Pacentro.

Madonna's paternal grandparents lived in the town of Pacentro until 1919, and Mads has always been aware of her Italian cultural heritage.

While her publicist, Liz Rosenberg, wouldn't give the exact amount donated by Madonna, a source told People that the amount is close to $500,000 (around £340,000).

Madonna said: "I am happy to lend a helping hand to the town that my ancestors are from.

"My heart goes out to the families that have lost loved ones or their homes."