In the wake of the catastrophic Hurricane Beryl that wreaked havoc across the Caribbean, causing an estimated £1 billion in damages and leaving nations like Venezuela, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, and Grenada in despair, the Prince and Princess of Wales have taken a significant step to offer relief to the affected individuals.
Their actions speak volumes about their commitment to making a tangible difference rather than merely expressing sympathy through words.
With Hurricane Beryl’s widespread devastation amounting to approximately £1 billion globally, the royal couple’s generous donation towards aiding the cause has not gone unnoticed.
While the exact sum contributed by the Wales remains undisclosed, their private donations signify a heartfelt gesture towards supporting those in need during this crisis.
During their Caribbean tour in 2022 to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee, marking her remarkable 70-year reign as monarch, the Wales expressed deep sorrow upon witnessing the profound destruction inflicted by Hurricane Beryl across the region.
In a telegram following the storm’s aftermath, the King conveyed sincere condolences to those who lost their loved ones in this tragic event.
Hurricane Beryl, with maximum sustained winds reaching around 160 mph, made history as the first Category 5 Atlantic hurricane recorded in nearly a century.
The island of Union, situated off the coast of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, bore the brunt of the hurricane’s fury, leaving almost every structure either demolished or severely damaged, according to a resident’s account.
Describing the dire situation on Union Island post-Beryl, Katrina Coy, director of the Union Island Environmental Alliance, highlighted the widespread devastation that has left the majority of the island’s population homeless and in urgent need of assistance.
She emphasized the critical requirement for emergency supplies, food provisions, and evacuation strategies to support the affected residents in their time of distress.
Princess Catherine, currently undergoing chemotherapy as part of her treatment, expressed deep empathy towards the plight of those impacted by the hurricane, underscoring the urgent need for rescue efforts and support for the vulnerable communities.
The resilience and unity displayed by the victims in the face of adversity have resonated deeply with the royal family, prompting them to extend their support in a time of crisis.
In a demonstration of solidarity and compassion, the Prince and Princess of Wales have exemplified their unwavering commitment to standing by those in need during times of calamity.