A series of devastating fires began on January 7, 2025, in Southern California, affecting areas like Los Angeles County and Pacific Palisades, resulting in extensive property damage and 11 fatalities. Amid the crisis, Harry and Meghan Markle offered support through their Archewell Foundation, encouraging community aid and welcoming evacuees into their home. They actively participated in relief efforts, distributing essential supplies and expressing gratitude to first responders while fostering connections with affected families.
Devastating Fires in Southern California
Beginning January 7, 2025, a series of destructive fires have swept through Los Angeles County and neighboring regions in Southern California, impacting areas like Pacific Palisades, Eaton, Hurst, and Sunset. Numerous properties, including those of residents and celebrities, have been turned to ashes due to the intense flames, exacerbated by hot, dry winds from the desert. Wind gusts reaching up to 160 km/h have hindered the efforts of water-dropping planes and helicopters. Recent reports confirm 11 fatalities, leading to the implementation of a curfew aimed at preventing looting.
Harry and Meghan’s Community Support
On January 9, Harry and Meghan Markle addressed the critical situation by releasing a statement titled ‘Fires in Southern California’ on their official website, Sussex.com. In their message, they highlighted the widespread devastation caused by the wildfires, affecting countless families, neighborhoods, schools, and healthcare facilities. “A state of emergency has been declared. If you feel compelled to help, here are some resources and ideas,” they urged, while also mentioning organizations actively working to aid those impacted and suggesting ways to assist evacuees, including opening their home.
Residing over a hundred kilometers north of Los Angeles in Montecito, Harry and Meghan have welcomed friends and family members who were forced to evacuate their homes. Despite their own home not being under threat, the couple is actively engaged with their Archewell Foundation to identify effective support strategies for the community during this crisis. The foundation is also recruiting volunteers to assist with mental health recovery for those in urgent need and to contribute to long-term recovery initiatives. All donations made through Archewell are being directed towards relief efforts, and the Sussexes have provided essential supplies and children’s clothing as well.
After opening their Montecito residence, Harry and Meghan were spotted providing support to fire victims outside the Pasadena Convention Center. The couple was present to distribute food and vital supplies to those affected by the fires. They expressed gratitude towards first responders, including firefighters and local police, for their tireless efforts during this challenging time.
During their visit, Archie and Lilibet’s parents met with Pasadena’s mayor, Victor Gordo, who praised their compassionate nature. “They are wonderful people with a beautiful personality and a big heart,” he commented. “They want to be as helpful as possible… We visited some of the families affected in some of the burned areas of Pasadena and Altadena. They took the time to meet with those affected and spent time with them. They are very caring people who care about their friends and neighbors.”