Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have opened the doors to their sprawling $29 million Montecito, Calif., mansion to friends who have been forced to evacuate as deadly infernos continue to rip through the surrounding areas.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who have lived in the luxe neighborhood since 2020, sprung into action by lending a helping hand to several of their pals, People reports.
Nearly 180,000 people are under evacuation orders after five fires ravaged Los Angeles County, taking over nearly 36,000 acres of land with zero containment in the Eaton and Kenneth Fires.
The duo, who wed in 2018, live about 90 miles from Los Angeles where the fire has wreaked havoc on all infrastructure in its path.
Luckily, the pair’s 18,000-square-foot home is not in the evacuation line, though it may be prone to a “Public Safety Power Shutoff” due to the wildfire risk if the situation worsens.
They purchased the property for $14.65 million in the summer of 2020, and the home has since doubled in value.
The nine-bedroom, 16-bathroom luxe pad sits in close proximity to famous neighbors, including Oprah Winfrey and, until recently, Ellen DeGeneres.
In addition to housing their displaced friends, the former working royals are working with their Archewell Foundation to aid the community through the different charities their organization works with.
These include chef José Andrés’ World Central Kitchen, as well as children’s charities that are working to provide essential items to families with young kids caught up in the crisis.
On Thursday, the Sussexes shared a message about the deadly blaze on their website as they listed several resources to those wanting to help.
“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,” their statement began, noting that “a state of emergency has been issued,” they wrote.
“If you feel compelled to help, here are some resources and ideas,” they added, providing a long list of organizations that people can donate to, including chef José Andrés’ World Central Kitchen, Cal Fire and the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, a nonprofit that supports local firefighters.
As renowned animal lovers, Prince Harry and Meghan also linked to the Animal Wellness Foundation and the Compton Cowboys, citing their work caring for animals affected by the fires.
The “Suits” alum, 43, and Harry, 40, continued their statement, telling good Samaritans to “open your home” to those fleeing the fires if able to do so.
As of Friday, firefighters have contained 6% of the Palisades fire, which started on Tuesday.
It’s believed that the blazes are being fueled by strong winds, “dry fuels” and low humidity.
On Thursday, one person was taken into custody in connection to the Kenneth Fire, which erupted in Los Angeles’ West Hills on Thursday afternoon.
