Prince Harry and Meghan Markle open doors of their Montecito mansion to help friends amid LA wildfires

MONTECITO, CALIFORNIA: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have opened the doors of their $14 million mansion in Montecito to help out friends and close ones forced to evacuate as wildfires continue to rage in California, People reported on Friday, January 10.

The home of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex in a Santa Barbara enclave is situated about 90 miles north of Los Angeles, and is not under threat of evacuation at present.

The LA wildfires began on January 7 and quickly spread to nearby areas. According to the publication, more than 100,000 LA residents have been forced to evacuate following the Palisades and Eaton Fires, as multiple smaller fires continue to rage.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's efforts to support the community

In addition to assisting their friends, the royal couple are also reportedly working with their Archewell Foundation to come up with impactful ways to support the community.

Their efforts include volunteering help for the immediate mental health recovery as well as facilitating long-term needs. Donations are also being made through the foundation for relief efforts.

Harry and Meghan are known to be working with chef Jose Andres' World Central Kitchen to provide further relief efforts. The organization has been a longstanding partner of their foundation, through which they donated essential supplies, clothes, and children's items.

Official statement of the Sussexes

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, released a statement on their website about the California Fires on Thursday, January  9, urging residents to be kind to one another in this time of crisis.

"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," the statement read.

"If a friend, loved one, or pet has to evacuate and you are able to offer them a safe haven in your home, please do," the couple requested. "And be sure to check in with any disabled or elderly neighbors to see if they need help evacuating."

"Some families and people have been left with nothing. Please consider donating clothing, children’s toys & clothing, and other essentials," the statement read, along with a list of organizations that were working on extending relief efforts.

Harry and Meghan were themselves spotted with Jose Andres from World Central Kitchen at the Pasadena Convention Center on Friday, volunteering at the emergency shelter for fire victims.

According to People's report, the raging fires across Southern California are yet to be contained.