Meghan Markle and her husband, Prince Harry, are offering a helping hand to those affected by the devastating wildfires currently ravaging Los Angeles.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are genuinely stepping up in a time of crisis, showing their compassion and generosity as wildfires wreak havoc in Los Angeles. With over 100,000 people having to evacuate their homes because of the fast-moving Palisades and Eaton Fires, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have opened the doors of their beautiful Montecito estate, believed to be worth $14 million, to friends and loved ones who need shelter and support.
The wildfires, which began on January 7, have wreaked havoc across Southern California, leaving a trail of destruction and displacing countless families. While Meghan and Harry’s home, located approximately 90 miles north in Montecito, remains unaffected, the couple is using their safe haven to provide relief to those who have been forced to evacuate.
A source close to the couple confirmed to PEOPLE that Meghan and Harry have extended their support to friends impacted by the fires.
In addition to assisting their loved ones, they made a surprise appearance at a food bank to comfort victims and support first responders.
On Friday, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex were seen handing out food parcels to those affected by the devastating fires at the Pasadena Convention Centre in Los Angeles, which is being used as an evacuation center.
The couple was seen embracing José Andrés, the founder of World Central Kitchen (a longstanding partner of Prince Harry and Meghan’s charitable Archewell Foundation), which is providing free hot meals to the community and emergency responders following the wildfires.
Meghan, wearing a light blue shirt and a blue baseball cap, and Harry, in a black polo shirt and black baseball cap, also made an effort to converse with Pasadena’s Mayor, Victor Gord.
The Sussex family is also collaborating with their Archewell Foundation to identify the most effective methods for aiding the community during this crisis. The foundation is also seeking volunteer options to help with mental health recovery for individuals in immediate need and will organize long-term recovery initiatives.
On Thursday, January 9, they released a statement called “Southern California Fires” on the sussex.com website, suggesting resources and suggestions for those looking to assist those affected.
Since Tuesday, January 7, numerous wildfires have been wreaking havoc throughout Los Angeles County, including the Palisades Fire affecting the Pacific Palisades and Malibu regions and the Eaton Fire impacting Pasadena and Altadena, both of which are not contained at all.
Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna stated that the current death toll from the Los Angeles wildfires is unknown, despite earlier reports. During a press conference on Thursday, January 9, Luna expressed that he was “not satisfied” with the initial information he received but acknowledged that people “are doing their best” under the challenging circumstances.
