Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have run into trouble in California, where their charitable efforts have hit a snag. The state attorney general’s office has deemed Archewell, the charity set up by the estranged royal couple, “delinquent.” This development casts a shadow over Archewell’s operations, as it is now prohibited from raising or spending any funds.
Prince Harry and Meghan Archwell were found delinquent
Founded by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex in 2020, Archewell is a non-profit organisation. Additionally, within Archewell Inc., it operates for-profit business divisions focused on media production, namely Archewell Audio and Archewell Productions. According to a report by PageSix, Harry and Meghan’s charity has been classified as delinquent and has been directed to stop raising or spending money.
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Archewell stranding case explained
In California, charities and foundations like Archewell are required to file an annual report and pay a filing fee in order to maintain their status as a charity or foundation. In the new report, California Attorney General Rob Bonta said Archwell failed to do either. And from here the financial problems began. As a result, the California Registry of Charities and Foundations listed Archwell as “delinquent.” This means that Archewell cannot raise or spend funds until this issue is resolved.
“An organization listed as delinquent is not in good standing and is prohibited from engaging in conduct that requires registration, including soliciting or disbursing charitable funds.” reads the document obtained by PageSix. “The organization may also be subject to sanctions and its registration may be suspended or canceled by the registry.” She adds.
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Archewell pauses activities
This situation has led to the temporary suspension of Archewell’s activities until the registration fees are paid and the annual report is submitted to the relevant authorities. According to a source, Harry’s foundation has applied for registration; However, the check was sent but never received. The institution itself was not informed of this and did not learn until after receiving the late payment notice. The issue is expected to be resolved within the next few business days, but until then, the organization has to temporarily halt its activities.
Harry and Meghan, who are currently touring Nigeria as part of Invictus commitments and a private invitation, are scheduled to return to California. Although they stepped down from their royal duties in 2020, their trip to the southern African country was a royal meet-and-greet, where they were welcomed for their efforts and appreciation for the culture.