Harry and Meghan thank fans for the global baby shower campaign in honor of their baby's arrival
In a new royal first, altruistic fans of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex came up with a unique and innovative way to celebrate the royal couple's upcoming baby and honor their philanthropic work using the power of social media.
Fans of Meghan and Prince Harry have reportedly launched #GlobalSussexBabyShower, an online campaign encouraging people to donate to charities championed by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. And now, the royal couple has responded to their loving fans on their newly established Instagram account - SussexRoyal.
"What an incredibly special surprise the grassroots-led #globalsussexbabyshower was last Sunday!" their caption began. "The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are immensely grateful for the outpouring of love and support in anticipation of the birth of their first child."
As is customary for most expecting royal couples, Harry and Meghan too were going to ask supporters to donate to their charities in lieu of sending actual gifts, but it seems like the young couple's fans have beaten them to the punch with #GlobalSussexBabyShower.
As per Harper's Bazaar, royal fans have been asked to look for the following charities for donation: Lunch Box Fund, a charity that provides meals to children in need; Little Village, an effort to give clothes and toys to young children up to the age of five in need; WellChild, which supports children with serious illnesses and baby2baby, which provides children living in poverty with diapers, clothing, and other necessities.
"The Duke and Duchess remain appreciative for your warm wishes and kindness during this especially happy time in their lives! Thank you for sharing the love ❤️," the caption concluded. The royal household has also taken note of the movement.
A royal aide told the media outlet this week, "The charities have all been in touch to share the news with Kensington Palace, who are hugely warmed by the fundraising efforts. It’s an incredibly thoughtful way to mark a special occasion."
The campaign has already made a serious impact. After the hashtag was launched, Camfed, a women's education organization, received $18,500 in donations and The Mayhew, an animal rescue charity, received over $5,373. Other charities fans gave to include Sentebale, the organization Prince Harry set up to aid children with HIV, and Myna Mahila Foundation, which provides sanitary pads and education on menstrual hygiene to women in India.