Kate Middleton and Prince William Secretly Helped a London Food Bank Get Back on Its Feet
The food pantry was robbed on Sept. 8.
Giving back to U.K. communities is a hallmark of the Royal Family, and over the weekend, a London food bank revealed that Prince William and Kate Middleton had quietly donated money after the organization was robbed on Sept. 8.
Pecan, a Christian charity that operates the Southwark Food Bank, announced in a statement that "thousands of pounds worth of food and hygiene products as well as a charity laptop" were taken in the heist.
However, the organization shared a thank you post on X Friday, Sept. 13, revealing that the Prince and Princess of Wales had helped in their fundraising efforts.
"A huge thank you to @Kensingtonroyal who have donated to the recovery effort following the theft of £3k of food supplies from @southwarkfoodbk," Pecan shared.
The charity added that "All at @Pecan121a have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from across society" and that the food bank's "stocks are being replenished now."
Pecan CEO Peter Edwards spoke with the BBC about the Waleses' support, stating, "This surprise donation by the Prince and Princess of Wales - following such a difficult spell for their family - underlines their kindness and decency."
He also pointed out that "after serious ill health, their first thought was of how to help others" and that the charity was "delighted" that the couple thought about the food bank "and the people of the community in need across Southwark."
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
"Their generosity will inspire staff and volunteers to redouble Pecan's efforts to alleviate poverty in London," Edwards added.
A huge thank you to @Kensingtonroyal who have donated to the recovery effort following the theft of £3k of food supplies from @southwarkfoodbk. All at @Pecan121a have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from across society. Food stocks are being replenished now ❤️September 13, 2024
The BBC reported that per Kensington Palace, "Prince William and Catherine had heard about the burglary and wanted to offer their support," with the food bank confirming to the news outlet that the Waleses "pledged £3,500."
Last week, the couple posted a personal video sharing that the Princess of Wales had completed chemotherapy treatment after announcing she'd been diagnosed with cancer in March.
"The cancer journey is complex, scary and unpredictable for everyone, especially those closest to you," the mom of three said in the moving video. "With humility, it also brings you face to face with your own vulnerabilities in a way you have never considered before, and with that, a new perspective on everything."
Kristin Contino is Marie Claire's Senior Royal and Celebrity editor. She's been covering royalty since 2018—including major moments such as the Platinum Jubilee, Queen Elizabeth II’s death and King Charles III's coronation—and places a particular focus on the British Royal Family's style and what it means.
Prior to working at Marie Claire, she wrote about celebrity and royal fashion at Page Six Style and covered royalty from around the world as chief reporter at Royal Central. Kristin has provided expert commentary for outlets including the BBC, Sky News, US Weekly, the Today Show and many others.
Kristin is also the published author of two novels, “The Legacy of Us” and “A House Full of Windsor.” She's passionate about travel, history, horses, and learning everything she can about her favorite city in the world, London.
-
Why King Charles's Cousin Immediately Name-Dropped Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on 'The Traitors'
Lord Ivar Mountbatten quickly established his connection to the Sussexes, and discussed his status as the first openly gay British royal.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Suki Waterhouse Cements Her '70s Darling Status in the Yeti Coat Trend
The British pop-rock princess truly met her match in this shaggy vintage-inspired style.
By Hanna Lustig Published
-
These Royals Could Step Up to Help Prince William When He's King "If He Calls on Them"
Three members of the Royal Family are likely to pitch in with duties down the line.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
These Royals Could Step Up to Help Prince William When He's King "If He Calls on Them"
Three members of the Royal Family are likely to pitch in with duties down the line.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Why King Charles "Refuses" to Give Kate Middleton Advice About Becoming Queen
"For much of the same reason, Camilla has not felt compelled to speak with Kate about what it's like to be queen."
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Will This Major Red Carpet Moment be Princess Kate's First Appearance of 2025?
"We have been told that she wouldn't want to miss it, so she's hoping to be there with William."
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Don't Expect Princess Kate to "Return to the All Trouser Suits, All the Time" Aesthetic in 2025, Per Royal Fashion Experts
Royal style gurus Christine Ross and Susan Kelley share their fashion predictions with 'Marie Claire.'
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Kate Middleton Reportedly Acts as the “Glue” When Prince William and King Charles Don’t See Eye-to-Eye
"She is solution-focused and is certainly the glue between Prince William and King Charles III."
By Kayleigh Roberts Published
-
What Prince William’s Birthday Tribute to Kate Middleton Reveals About How Her Cancer Diagnosis Has Affected Their Relationship
A royal expert unpacked the meaning behind the "'heartfelt" post.
By Kayleigh Roberts Published
-
Princess Kate Isn't Always "Well Enough" for Royal Duties, but She's Learning to "Pace" Herself
"She is looking after herself and is wise to do so," a family friend shared.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Princess Kate Has Been Honored With Birthday Charity Earrings That Support a Cause Close to Her Heart
Proceeds from the $34 style will benefit a charity the Princess of Wales has paid tribute to in the past.
By Kristin Contino Published