Although Meghan Markle has been spotted lending a hand to the Los Angeles wildfire relief effort, she’s been perceived as a “disaster tourist.” Alongside Markle, her husband, Prince Harry, was seen offering emotional support to victims at an evacuation center in Pasadena. Given their efforts, can the royal couple shift public perception of their involvement in disaster relief?
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s Archewell Foundation
With these devastating wildfires sweeping through LA, this past week has left a trail of destruction. As a result, many residents have been displaced, including celebrities, who have lost their homes. According to reports, the royal couple has been collaborating and providing aid with the Altadena Girls Fire Recovery Fund. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry generously donated through their Archewell Foundation to support a worthy cause.
Launched by 14-year-old Avery Colvert, the initiative aims to empower teenage girls in her community. After the catastrophic wildfires, Culvert wants these girls to regain their confidence and sense of self. Designed to provide tangible support to those affected by the fires, the Altadena Girls Fire Recovery Funds focuses on collecting essential items.
Namely, clothing, personal care products, and beauty supplies are provided to people in need. Altadena Girls shared a heartwarming video on Instagram involving Meghan Markle. In the video, the actress interacted with a young girl in a parking lot, carrying multiple donation-filled bags. Specifically, the video further reveals the royal couple’s philanthropic efforts as they help those displaced by the fires.
Royal Support for Los Angeles Fire Evacuees
While interacting with the girls at the donation hub, Meghan Markle exuded a relaxed, laid-back vibe with her style. Markle wore jeans, a black t-shirt, and a navy blue baseball cap with the letters “L.A.” on the front. Offering a comforting touch, the actress was seen gently rubbing one of the girl’s arms. The video displays a heartwarming montage of clips showcasing Markle’s visit to the hub. Ultimately, students and teens displaced by the fires can visit the hub to browse donations and receive styling services free of charge.
The Altadena Girls Fire Recovery Fund acknowledged the outpouring of support, expressing gratitude to those who participated in the special event on Monday. In a separate post, it also thanked The Archewell Foundation for their generous contribution, highlighting the significance of their partnership. Due to this donation, the organization could accept funds directly, ensuring that the communities that need the most have access. While many fans have praised the royal couple for their philanthropic efforts, others have criticized their involvement in the wake of the tragedies.
Fox 11 Los Angeles captured video footage showing Prince Harry and Meghan Markle visiting Pasadena on Friday. In the video, the royal couple engaged with volunteers and Mayor Victor Gordo while spending time with evacuees. Sparking controversy, a news anchor during a live broadcast called Meghan by an outdated title, causing online backlash.
The anchor further comments that the actress’ relief efforts were perceived as tone-deaf and dismissive. In contrast, Mayor Victor Gordo was more positive towards the royal couple. He praised their efforts and described them as genuinely compassionate people.
Actress Blasts Harry and Meghan Amid Wildfires
Actress Justine Bateman expressed her disdain for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s recent visit to Los Angeles to meet with evacuees on social media. Labeling them “disaster tourists,” Bateman’s comment sparked heated online debates. According to a source close to the couple, they took offense to the notion that their visit was a publicity stunt.
Furthermore, the source stated that Meghan Markle was born and raised in Los Angeles to explain her personal connection to the area and her desire to support those affected by the wildfires. Although the royal couple was safe from the devastation, Markle’s new Netflix show had been delayed. Originally, the show was set to premiere on January 15, however, it’ll now debut on March 4th.
Latest News Regarding Los Angeles Wildfires
Fortunately, the Los Angeles wildfires have shown minimum growth over the past 24 hours. Still, Los Angeles County residents have been cautioned to remain vigilant as forecasters predict another significant wind issue, which could potentially exacerbate the situation, early next week. Expected on Monday and Tuesday, the return of Santa Ana winds may ignite the dry, unburned fuel that remains in the affected areas, sparking even more fires. Notably, the wildfires have reduced entire neighborhoods to ashes, claiming at least 25 lives.
