Meghan Markle and Prince Harry unexpectedly visited a food bank at the Pasadena Convention Center to support victims and first responders affected by the ongoing fires in Los Angeles. The couple distributed food parcels and embraced Jose Andres, founder of World Central Kitchen, which provides meals to disaster victims. They also interacted with Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo and residents who lost their homes, demonstrating their commitment to being supportive. While the couple sought to help the community during this crisis, they faced criticism regarding their statements and actions. They encouraged others to provide housing and donations for evacuees.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry made a surprise appearance at a food bank to comfort victims and first responders during the ongoing fires in Los Angeles.
The couple were seen on Friday handing out food parcels to people affected by the massive fire at the Pasadena Convention Center, which is being used as an evacuation center.
Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan were also seen hugging Jose Andres, founder of World Central Kitchen, which is distributing meals to disaster victims.
Meghan and Harry, who wore light blue shirts and blue baseball caps, also took time to comfort Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo.
The mayor said the couple were keen to provide any support they could, adding that they were “wonderful people” with “great personalities”.
“They really lifted the spirits of the first responders. We visited the command post at the Rose Bowl and people were very happy to see it,” the mayor added.
The exchange was broadcast live on Fox News, and anchor Susan Hilasna was criticized online for referring to Meghan as “Princess Markle.” Duchess Meghan was also criticized for saying that she was “playing with the common people.”
It happened after the couple opened the doors of their $29 million Montecito mansion to friends and loved ones forced to evacuate due to ongoing wildfires.
Meghan Markle was spotted comforting victims and first responders at a shelter during the ongoing fires in Los Angeles on Friday.
Jose Andres, founder of World Central Kitchen, which is distributing meals to victims of the Los Angeles fires, was also seen meeting Duchess Meghan and Prince Harry.
Meghan speaks with Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo (center) and Doug Goodwin, whose home was destroyed in the Eaton fire, in Altadena.
Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle meet with Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo
“They (Prince Harry and Meghan Markle) just want to be as helpful as possible and really supportive,” Mayor Gord told Fox News.
He added that the couple visited burned-out homes in Pasadena and Altadena and spoke with people who lost their homes.
“They took the time to meet and spend time with the people affected. They are very caring people who care very much about their friends and neighbors,” the mayor said.
The couple appeared at the center on the same day, offering meals “anonymously” to victims who were unable to recognize them as they were wearing masks.
As bushfires continue to destroy celebrity homes, leaving behind only ashes and rubble, Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan asked other Los Angeles residents to pay tribute to the victims in a statement posted on the website Sussex.com. He called on people to open their homes for the purpose.
“If a friend, loved one or pet has to evacuate and you can offer your home as a safe haven, please do so,” the couple wrote.
“And be sure to reach out to any disabled or elderly neighbors to see if they need help evacuating.”
“Please consider donating clothing, children’s toys and clothing, and other essential items,” they said, noting that the American Red Cross is assisting those in need on the ground.
Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan are already doing so, according to the Telegraph, and are working with Archewell Foundation staff to identify the most effective ways to support the community.
Donations are being made to relief efforts through the foundation, and they are also looking for volunteer opportunities.
In California, thousands of firefighters are trying to extinguish a wind-driven blaze that has killed 10 people, destroyed communities and left thousands desperately evacuated.