This past week, nearly 100,000 Los Angeles residents have been displaced from their homes due to the devastating fires sweeping across the area. The rapidly spreading flames have already destroyed 9,000 homes and buildings since Tuesday and are still uncontained.
In the midst of this tragedy, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have kindly opened their home to friends and loved ones who have been forced to evacuate. The couple live in Montecito, Santa Barbara, about 90 miles north of the Los Angeles area, along with their children Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
Prince Harry and Meghan suggest ideas on how to help
Along with their generosity in opening up their home, Prince Harry and Meghan are working with their Archewell Foundation to find other ways to support those affected. The couple issued a statement on their site, Sussex.com, explaining ways others can pitch in to help.
“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,” the statement reads. It goes on to list organizations working to help, including José Andrés’ World Central Kitchen, working to serve meals to first responders and victims; Animal Wellness Foundation, caring for animals evacuated from the fire; Baby2baby, providing essentials for families in need, including diapers; and All Power Books, offering supplies and essentials.
Encouraging others to open their homes
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex also ask people to open their homes, too, where possible. “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.”
Personal donations from Harry and Meghan
Through their Archewell Foundation, Harry and Meghan have made personal donations to the relief efforts. In addition to financial contributions, the couple has donated clothing and other essential items to support those who’ve lost everything in the fires.
About the L.A. fires
The fires broke out on Tuesday, January 7, and have been a devastation to Los Angeles and surrounding communities. The flames, all of which, on writing, are currently 0% contained, include the Palisades fire, which is in the Palisades and Malibu areas and the Eaton fire in Pasadena and Altadena.
Of the thousands of structures destroyed since Tuesday, dozens of celebrities have shared that their homes have burned down as well. Stars who’ve lost their houses include Milo Ventimiglia, Paris Hilton and Leighton Meester and Adam Brody, among others.
