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LEESBURG, GA --
Phillip Phillips fever is spreading rapidly. Local businesses are coming together to help the Phillips family cheer the Southwest Georgia star on American Idol.        

The City of Leesburg presented a key to the city to Phillips, but the Idol contestant was unable to be there to receive the key. However, his parents did accept on his behalf at the Leesburg City Hall.

“I'm sure every parent in the world is proud of their children and this is just like icing on the cake” said his father Phillip Phillips Sr.

On top of getting the key, local businesses were lining up to celebrate Phillip by donating a portion of their Wednesday sales to help send the Phillips family to Hollywood to see Phillip perform live by participating in Phillip Phillips Wednesdays.

Dr. Renee Gordon with Lee County Optical told us why she is supporting Philip Philips Wednesdays. “I wanted to help him get to the next level and help us put Leesburg, Albany Georgia on the map. It feels good to help his family fly out there.”

Lee County Optical isn’t the only business donating a portion of their earnings every Wednesday to help with travel plans. Carter's Chicken in Leesburg will help out and in Albany, the Cask and Kilt will also donate along with several other businesses in the area including Cafe 230 in Lee County. 

“This is history, this is amazing; the talent that comes out of this community.  When I was asked would I like to make Wednesday Phillip Phillips day, I'm like, hey bring it on! Lets help the family.” said Cafe 230 owner BJ Fletcher.

The Idol contestant’s father said he is more than amazed with the outpouring support from the Southwest Georgia community.

“A feeling of being blessed and relief that people care enough in our hometowns around here; it makes tears come to my eyes. It's so overwhelming that people care about other people,” says Phillips.

The Phillips’ family is also participating in a fundraiser starting at 9am Saturday March 10, 2012 at  Albany Sporting Goods at 1703 East Oglethorpe Blvd.