Prince Harry and Meghan Markle open Montecito home to evacuees, donate to fire relief effort
As the Los Angeles fires continue to ravage the city, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have made donations to relief efforts through their Archewell Foundation and have opened their Montecito home to loved ones who were forced to evacuate, HELLO! can confirm.
The pair donated clothing, children’s items, and other essential supplies to those affected by the fires, and have been in direct contact with chef José Andrés and his World Central Kitchen, which provides meals to communities in the wake of natural disasters, to offer assistance where needed.
HELLO! also understands that the Duke and Duchess are actively working with their team at the Archewell Foundation to identify ways to support the communities most impacted including volunterring and mental health recovery.
News of their outreach comes after they shared a harrowing statement as the the wildfires rage on across southern California.
In a message on their website, the couple penned: "In the last few days, wildfires in Southern California have raged through neighborhoods and devastated families, homes, schools, medical care centers, and so much more – affecting tens of thousands from all walks of life.
"A state of emergency has been issued. If you feel compelled to help, here are some resources and ideas."
The couple shared several links to relevant organisations offering help, including the World Central Kitchen and Baby2baby.
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The pair concluded: "If a friend, loved one, or pet has to evacuate and you are able to offer them a safe haven in your home, please do. And be sure to check in with any disabled or elderly neighbors to see if they need help evacuating.
"Some families and people have been left with nothing. Please consider donating clothing, children's toys & clothing, and other essentials. The American Red Cross is on the ground helping those in need."
The couple's Montecito neighbourhood hasn't been impacted by the wildfire, however, the pair could potentially have the power cut to their mansion.
Southern California Edison, which provides electricity to several Santa Barbara neighborhoods, warned that they might implement a Public Safety Power Shutoff due to the wildfires.
The move could prompt the pair to leave their home with Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, as the loss of power would make it more difficult to communicate with officials should it be required.
The Palisades Fire began on January 7 and forced the evacuation of at least 30,000 residents in the affluent community where many Hollywood A-listers live.
The fire has grown to over 20,000 acres with zero containment, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, and swept down to Malibu and the Pacific Coast Highway where over 100 beachside homes were lost.
A second fire broke out in east Los Angeles, forcing the evacuation of tens of thousands more Californians; at least five people have lost their lives in the natural disaster.
A new fire also broke out in the Hollywood Hills, threatening a host of tourist sites including the Walk of Fame, and Hollywood Bowl, which has evacuated staff, as strong winds scattered embers, which could affect more homes and lives.
One of those affected by the fires was Paris Hilton, whose Malibu beach home burnt down. "This home was where we built so many precious memories. It's where Phoenix took his first steps and where we dreamed of building a lifetime of memories with London," she said in a post on Instagram. "While the loss is overwhelming, I'm holding onto gratitude that my family and pets are safe."
