As wildfires continue to rage across Southern California, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are showing their commitment to community and compassion. The 40 year old Prince Harry and the 43 year old Meghan Markle have stepped forward to support those affected by the devastating blazes engulfing Los Angeles County since Tuesday, January 7.
The Palisades and Eaton Fires, along with smaller outbreaks, have forced over 100,000 residents to evacuate, leaving destruction and uncertainty in their wake. According to PEOPLE, the royal couple has extended a lifeline to friends and loved ones displaced by the fires, opening their Montecito home, located about 90 miles north of Los Angeles, to provide refuge. Despite not being in an evacuation zone themselves, the Sussexes have taken swift action to assist those in need.
Meghan, a Los Angeles native, and Harry are leveraging their Archewell Foundation to make a broader impact during this crisis. The foundation is coordinating efforts to provide immediate relief and facilitate long-term recovery. A particular focus is being placed on mental health support for affected individuals, offering both resources and volunteer opportunities to aid those grappling with the emotional toll of the disaster.
In collaboration with Chef José Andrés’ World Central Kitchen, a trusted partner of Archewell, the couple is contributing to relief efforts by ensuring food security for displaced families. They’ve also donated essential supplies, including clothing and items for children, to help meet the urgent needs of evacuees.
On the 9th of January, the couple released a heartfelt statement titled “Southern California Fires” on their official website. The message not only expressed solidarity with those impacted but also outlined actionable ways for others to join the cause. Among the organizations highlighted were World Central Kitchen, CAL FIRE, the LA Fire Department Foundation, Baby2Baby, the Animal Wellness Foundation, Compton Cowboys, Airbnb and 211LA, and All Power Books.
“Our hearts are with the families and communities affected by these devastating fires,” the statement read. “We stand ready to support in any way we can and encourage everyone to lend a hand in rebuilding lives and homes.”
The fires, including the Palisades Fire in the Pacific Palisades and Malibu areas and the Eaton Fire in Pasadena and Altadena, remain entirely uncontained. At a press briefing on January 9, Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna refrained from speculating on the death toll but acknowledged the dire conditions faced by emergency responders. “People are doing their best in extraordinarily difficult circumstances,” he said.
While the flames continue to devastate the region, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s actions serve as a beacon of hope and solidarity.
Main Image: The Mirror US
