In the midst of the wildfires raging through Los Angeles area, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have opened their Southern California dwelling to loved ones who have been forced to evacuate, People reports. The couple’s Montecito pad is about 90 miles north of LA and outside of current evacuation zones. As of publication time, more than 9,000 buildings and 36,000 acres have been ravaged by the flames. More than 180,000 people are under evacuation orders. At least 10 have died.
On Thursday, the couple shared a statement about the disaster via their official website, sussex.com. The message includes a list of resources for aiding the affected community. “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,” it reads. “And be sure to check in with any disabled or elderly neighbors to see if they need help evacuating.” The American Red Cross, the LA Fire Department Foundation, Animal Wellness Foundation, and more organizations are named among the entities readers can support.
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According to People, the Duke and Duchess’s Archewell Foundation is also “looking for volunteer opportunities to assist with mental health recovery for those needing immediate help and will facilitate long-term recovery efforts.” Details of that endeavor are unclear at this time, but donations to the foundation are also going towards relief efforts, the outlet reports. The pair has reportedly donated essential supplies and is working with Archewell Foundation partner chef José Andrés’ World Central Kitchen, which is currently organizing to provide meals to those affected by the fires.
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Markle and Prince Harry live in a $14.7 million mansion in the celebrity-favored SoCal enclave. The nearly 19,000-square-foot Mediterranean-style manse has nine bedrooms and 16 bathrooms.
