Meghan Markle and Prince Harry surprised many by visiting a food bank to support the ongoing relief efforts for the victims of the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles.
On Friday, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex were spotted at the Pasadena Convention Centre, where they were distributing food parcels to those affected by the fires.
The centre has been transformed into an evacuation hub for those in need.
Joining Forces with World Central Kitchen
During their visit, Meghan and Harry were seen embracing José Andrés, the founder of World Central Kitchen, which has been providing free hot meals to both the public and emergency responders.
Meghan, wearing a light blue shirt and a baseball cap, and Harry, in a black polo and matching baseball cap, took time to chat with Pasadena’s Mayor Victor Gordo.
The couple’s presence seemed to uplift the spirits of those around them.
Offering Comfort and Support
Mayor Gordo praised the couple’s genuine commitment to helping those affected, describing them as “great people” with “great personalities.”
He mentioned that their visit to the Rose Bowl’s command post was especially well-received by the first responders, who were visibly uplifted by their support.
He also shared that Meghan and Harry had spent time visiting the damaged homes in Pasadena and Altadena, speaking with those who had lost everything in the fires.
A Surprise Appearance and Public Criticism
The couple had earlier made an anonymous appearance at the evacuation centre, serving food to victims who couldn’t recognize them due to their face masks.
Despite their efforts to remain low-key, their visit was broadcast live on FOX LA, where news anchor Susan Hirasuna faced backlash for mistakenly referring to Meghan as “Princess Markle.”
Social media users quickly corrected her, pointing out that Meghan holds the title of Duchess of Sussex, not princess.
Many also criticized Hirasuna’s comment that the couple was “hanging out with the commoners,” finding it disrespectful.
Lending a Hand from Home
Along with their visit, Harry and Meghan opened the doors to their $29 million mansion in Montecito to provide shelter to loved ones and friends who were forced to evacuate their homes due to the wildfires.
Mayor Gordo spoke to FOX LA about their desire to help, noting that the couple had been proactive in offering support.
In addition to their personal efforts, they also donated to relief efforts through their Archewell Foundation.
Ongoing Wildfires and Urgent Calls for Help
The wildfires continue to wreak havoc across California, leaving thousands of people displaced and more than 7,000 structures destroyed.
Many celebrities, including Adam Brody, Leighton Meester, and Anna Faris, have lost their homes.
The devastating fires have claimed the lives of at least 11 people, and emergency responders are working tirelessly to contain the flames, which are being fueled by high winds.
In light of the growing crisis, Harry and Meghan have urged Los Angeles residents to offer their homes to evacuees and help those in need.
Their call for donations to the American Red Cross and other relief organizations has resonated across the community, with the couple working closely with their foundation to ensure effective support.
The Unpredictable Path of the Fires
As the fires continue to spread, there are fears that new blazes could break out.
Since the initial fire in Pacific Palisades, more fires have ignited, forcing even more evacuations in places like Pasadena and the Hollywood Hills.
Communities are bracing for further destruction, but the combined efforts of first responders, volunteers, and the public continue to provide hope amidst the devastation.
This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!
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