Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have responded to many stories alleging that their charity, the Archewell Foundation, concealed monies in a "missing millions" controversy.
The Daily Mail reported in September that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex received grants exceeding £4.5 million ($6 million) over the past two years. However, these were absent from the charity's tax return. The charity stated to the publication that the records, indicating $2,000,911 in tax returns, are accurate, and the funds will be included in the subsequent tax return.
Today, PEOPLE Magazine stated that Archewell experienced growth in its third year of operation. It secured a total of £4.1 million ($5.3 million) in grants, more than double the £1.5 million ($2 million) raised the prior year.
The foundation's 2023 tax papers, reportedly obtained by the publication, designated £1 million ($1.3 million) of the roughly £3.9 million ($5 million) raised for charitable purposes from January to December 2023.
The organization obtained a £3.9 million ($5 million) grant from a single donor and an additional £264,484 ($335,000) from five individuals.
The report indicated that PEOPLE Magazine recognizes Archewell's initiatives, such as The Parents Network and other community-oriented programs, have garnered increased support, resulting in elevated funding and assets at year-end.
This money will sustain current projects and enhance the foundation's initiatives.
Concerning the "missing million" allegations, the charity's documentation indicates that in distinct reports for the 2022-2023 fiscal year, Fidelity Charitable donated £4.7 million ($6 million) to Archewell, whilst TisBest Philanthropy disclosed a grant of £7,897 ($10,000).
Archewell has acknowledged the receipt of two distinct contributions amounting to £789,727 ($1 million) from unnamed benefactors.
The report said that the gap in reported amounts arises from variations in the timing of the grants, as detailed in the charity's latest filing.
Archewell's annual revenue totaled £4.5 million ($5.7 million). At the same time, the tax filing revealed the couple's "nominal one-hour-per-week involvement in Archewell’s operations," a "standard practice for directors of U.S. tax-exempt organizations." It also reportedly confirmed that the Sussexes do not receive any remuneration from the charity.
The records detailed pay for essential personnel and disclosed significant expenditures, including £787,271 ($997,285) in salary costs and £789,475 ($1 million) in total expenses encompassing fees, event costs, and travel.
The publication reports that the charity's annual expenses rise due to the expansion of essential programs.
Archewell has allocated £1 million ($1.3 million) in grants to assist many causes, including mental health projects, online safety, community development, the empowerment of women and girls, and attempts to battle disinformation.
"Our purpose is simple yet impactful: to show up, do good. To drive positive change, rally for communities in need, and nurture spaces where everyone is seen, valued, and supported. In 2024, we were honoured to work alongside communities, families, and individuals who, despite facing tremendous hardship, are redefining what’s possible," In the foundation's 2024 Impact Report, co-executive directors James Holt and Shauna Nep said.
Meanwhile, the recent disclosures on Archewell's financial status elicited a surge of responses online.
“This clears up nothing. If the millions aren’t missing, why the delay in disclosure? Transparency is key," one netizen commented. “Glad to see Archewell expanding its work. The Sussexes are proving their critics wrong!” a royal fan stated.
“Charities shouldn’t be so vague with numbers. Even with good intentions, accountability is non-negotiable," another X ser shared. “The programs sound impactful, but why is there always drama around this couple? Let’s focus on the work," a fourth source responded.
“Another baseless attack on Archewell. When will the tabloids stop targeting Harry and Meghan?” a fifth X user retorted. “The tax report doesn’t add up yet, but at least they’re not pocketing the funds. Progress?” another netizen asked.
Business Times has reached out to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle for comments.
