The chosen charities reflect the shared passions of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, focusing on young people, the environment and veterans. Charity work has been a big passion for Prince Harry throughout his years of service, and his organisation Heads Together, which he shares with brother Prince William and sister-in-law Kate Middleton is one of his key achievements.
Charity work is also close to Meghan’s heart, The former Suits star has travelled to India and Rwanda as the Global Ambassador for World Vision Canada, aiding campaigns supporting women’s education and clean water.
In a statement at the time of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s announcement, Kensington Palace said: “Prince Harry and Ms. Meghan Markle are incredibly grateful for the goodwill shown to them since the announcement of their engagement and are keen that as many people as possible benefit from this generosity of spirit. The couple have therefore asked that anyone who might wish to mark the occasion considers making a donation to charity, rather than sending a wedding gift.”
The seven charities that the royal couple chose include:
The Children’s HIV Association (CHIVA) – which supports children living with HIV and their families to create hopeful futures. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s first official outing as an engaged couple was at the World Aids Day Fair in Nottingham.
Crisis UK – helping thousands of people each year rebuild their lives and leave homelessness behind for good. Last year Prince Harry famously went for a run with homeless youth on behalf of not-for-profit organisation, The Running Charity.
Myna Mahili Foundation – which empowers women in Mumbai slums with a trusted network, stable employment and breaks the taboo around menstrual hygiene. Meghan is passionate about women’s rights and gender equality, having worked with the Empowerment of Women and the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality previously.
Scotty’s Little Soldiers – offers vital support to children who have lost a parent while serving in the Armed Forces. The military has been a big part of Prince Harry’s life, and the royal recently announced the role the armed forces will play at the royal wedding.
StreetGames – uses sport to empower young people to kick-start positive change. The couple visited a StreetGames project in Cardiff earlier this year.
Surfers against Sewage – a marine conservation project that unites and empowers communities to take action to protect beaches, ocean and marine life. Prince Harry showed his environmental awareness last year when he worked with charity MyPlace, which is fighting to grow more green spaces in urban centres – and helping youth enhance their mental health at the same time.
Wilderness Foundation – through the great outdoors, the charity builds resilience in vulnerable teenagers and promotes the benefit of nature. The Prince recently spent a day with local school children as part of the Wilderness Foundation’s conservation programs.
