The Sussexes are horrified by the destruction wrought by the wildfires that have wiped out so much of Southern California – and they’re looking to help the rebuilding effort any way they can, while opening up their home and resources to those affected, a source exclusively tells In Touch. 

Harry, 40, and Meghan, 43, bought their $29 million home in Montecito, California, in 2020 after they made their escape from the royal drama in the U.K. Montecito luckily avoided the worst of the wildfires that tore through the towns and neighborhoods nearby. “They could have easily left town, but they actually drove two hours towards the fire to help out at the World Central Kitchen,” the insider says. “They served meals to people that have been evacuated, they spoke with people and tried to offer some solace.” 

The Sussexes toured the hardest-hit areas, speaking with victims who lost everything in the fires in the days following the disaster. They also donated food, clothes, toys and other necessities to the main donation centers there.

The couple even opened their home to displaced people waiting on pins and needles to rebuild their lives and encouraged their fellow privileged – or at least housed – friends to do the same with a statement on their website.

“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 Sussexes statement read. “And be sure to check in with any disabled or elderly neighbors to see if they need help evacuating.”

“A state of emergency has been issued. If you feel compelled to help, here are some resources and ideas,” the statement continued, listing charities and organizations Harry’s own Archewell Foundation has partnered with in the past and are currently helping people affected by the fire

With such a big-hearted response, the source notes, “It was exactly what you’d expect of Princess Diana’s son.” 

After all, “Meghan is a California girl,” which means that the tragedy “is heartbreaking for her on so many levels. They’re both so sad, but they’re being proactive and they’re looking at ways their foundation can help.” 

The fires have killed at least 29 people to date, completely destroyed or damaged over 18,000 structures, forced over 200,000 residents to flee for their lives and delivered upwards of $20 billion in damages with an estimated total economic loss of more than $50 billion. While a lot of the news covering the blaze dealt with wealthier areas like the Palisades and focused on specific celebs losing their homes, the cost to the area extended far beyond the elite who call SoCal home.

“People may imagine this only impacting the wealthy, but there are plenty of regular people that are suffering unimaginable loss and trauma,” the insider explains. “There is so much need and they want to make sure they pinpoint the right charities to support in this.” 

“They’ve also invited everyone they know that’s in L.A. and wants to get out to come to their home in Montecito, since it’s not threatened. Emotionally they are very impacted by this, the collective pain and suffering that this city they both love is going through is devastating.”