Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s Archewell Foundation has demonstrated a significant philanthropic impact, contributing over a million dollars to various initiatives, despite experiencing a notable decline in donations.
The Foundation’s generous disbursements included $200,000 to Georgetown University’s gender justice initiative and $100,000 to the Halo Trust, an organization Princess Diana famously supported.
Additionally, Archewell responded to global crises by donating $10,000 for flood relief in Nigeria and $50,000 to aid the Ukrainian crisis.
These contributions are part of the foundation’s broader effort to support diverse projects worldwide.
However, the charity’s annual report revealed a substantial decrease in donations, contrasting with the substantial salaries paid to its staff.
James Holt, the executive director and a key figure for the Sussexes since their departure from royal duties, received a significant salary of $227,405 a year, including a $20,000 bonus.
© David Fisher/ShutterstockThis figure marks a considerable increase from his initial salary of $59,846. It is important to note that Holt’s 2021 salary did not reflect a full year of work, as he joined the Foundation mid-year.
In total, Archewell employed five individuals, with combined salaries amounting to $640,441 for the year.
Notably, Prince Harry and Meghan did not draw any salary from the Foundation.
© Chris JacksonThe Foundation’s financial health showed signs of strain, with donations plummeting by $11 million in the past year.
The total donations received in 2022 were just over $2 million, a stark decline from the $12.9 million received in 2021. This decrease resulted in a loss of $674,485 for the year, as the Foundation’s expenses exceeded its revenue.
The previous year had seen two major donors contribute approximately $1 million each, but such substantial donations were absent in 2022.
Despite the financial challenges, Archewell still holds substantial assets, with around $8.3 million in cash and other assets.
© Chris JacksonThis suggests that the Foundation might be utilizing funds accumulated in the initial year over several years, a common practice in high-profile foundations.
Amidst these financial disclosures, Harry and Meghan released a video highlighting Archewell’s impact throughout 2023.
This move coincided with the Princess of Wales sharing her own video featuring her children at a baby bank.
The Sussexes’ clip, which is a departure from their usual practice of sharing such updates in January, showcases the people and causes positively impacted by their foundation’s work throughout the year.
LISTEN: A Right Royal Podcast: Saying goodbye to The Crown
