Prince Harry And Meghan Markle made an unexpected visit to Pasadena on Friday, January 10, to volunteer with Chef José Andrés’ World Central Kitchen (WCK) amid the raging wildfires in Los Angeles County.
The couple was seen by local residents affected by the Eaton Fire, which has burned 15,000 acres and remains active after three days.
During their visit, Harry and Meghan helped serve meals outside the Pasadena Convention Center, where WCK has established operations. They were joined by Jennifer Siebel Newsom, wife of California Governor Gavin Newsom, and met with displaced families and elderly individuals.
The pair also visited the Pasadena Rose Bowl, where they expressed gratitude to Fire Chief Marrone, his team from the LA County Fire Department, members of CalFire, and the Pasadena Police Force. In addition, they donated clothing, children’s items, and other essentials to the main donation center.
Meghan opted for black jeans and a blue chambray shirt, while Harry wore chinos and a polo shirt; both wore N95 masks during their visit.
This appearance follows news that the couple has made financial contributions to wildfire relief efforts through their Archewell Foundation. They have also opened their Montecito home to friends and family forced to evacuate due to the fires.
Harry and Meghan are actively collaborating with their Archewell team to identify further ways to support the most impacted communities, focusing on volunteering and mental health recovery.
Their outreach comes after they issued a heartfelt statement addressing the ongoing crisis, emphasizing that many in the affected areas have “been left with nothing.”
The Wildfire Crisis
The Palisades Fire, which began on January 7, has destroyed over 20,000 acres in the neighborhood north of Santa Monica and continues to spread eastward, forcing evacuations near the 405 highway. The Eaton Fire, which also started on January 7, has devastated Altadena and nearby communities and is now moving into the mountains.
While several smaller fires have been mostly contained, the region remains on high alert. The exact causes of the fires are still unknown, but dry weather and the fierce Santa Ana winds have created ideal conditions for the blazes to spread rapidly.
Harry and Meghan’s efforts to provide relief and support underscore their commitment to helping communities in crisis during this challenging time.
