Meghan Markle and her husband Prince Harry have reportedly opened their home to friends fleeing the California wildfires.
The royals are believed to have offered their $14 million mansion in Montecito as a refuge to pals and loved ones who have been forced to evacuate their homes due to the fires, which broke out in Southern California on Tuesday (07.01.25) and forced more than 100,000 residents of Los Angeles to seek safety. The Montecito area has previously faced similar environmental challenges, with the community experiencing multiple evacuations in recent years.
According to PEOPLE, Meghan and Harry – who live around 90 miles north of the affected area – have “have opened their home to friends and loved ones forced to evacuate”. Their Montecito estate, purchased in 2020, spans 7.4 acres and includes multiple guest accommodations.
The website also reports the couple are channeling donations to their Archewell Foundation to relief efforts and working with the organization to “determine the most impactful ways to support the community during this crisis”. The Archewell Foundation, established in 2020, has been involved in various humanitarian efforts across California.
The new report comes after Prince Harry, 40, and Meghan, 43, issued a statement telling residents how they could keep pets and vulnerable residents safe amid the disaster. Their focus on pet safety is particularly relevant as studies show that up to 44% of people who refuse to evacuate do so because of their pets.
“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,” they said. The current wildfire season has already destroyed over 50,000 acres of land across Southern California.
“A state of emergency has been issued. If you feel compelled to help, here are some resources and ideas. Environmental experts predict this may be one of the most severe fire seasons on record due to climate conditions.
“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. Emergency response teams have reported that community support has been crucial in managing the crisis.
“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. Local authorities estimate that vulnerable populations, including elderly and disabled residents, make up approximately 20% of those affected.
“Please consider donating clothing, children’s toys and clothing, and other essentials. Relief organizations report that basic necessities are in high demand across evacuation centers.
“The American Red Cross is on the ground helping those in need.” The organization has already established multiple emergency shelters across the affected regions.
The Duke and Duchess’s response to the crisis aligns with their history of environmental and humanitarian advocacy. Since relocating to California in 2020, they have been actively involved in various community support initiatives through their foundation.
The wildfires have already caused an estimated $500 million in damage, affecting both residential and commercial properties. Climate scientists warn that such extreme weather events may become more frequent in the region due to ongoing climate change.
Local emergency services have praised the community’s response to the crisis, with numerous residents and organizations offering shelter and support to those affected. The current situation has highlighted the importance of community resilience and mutual aid during natural disasters.
The Sussexes’ public statement and personal response to the crisis demonstrate the growing role of public figures in disaster relief efforts. Their platform has helped raise awareness about the immediate needs of affected communities and ways the public can contribute to relief efforts.
