Royal couple Prince William and Kate Middleton, have asked that people who desire to gift them a wedding present do so through a donation to a fund which supports 26 charities, many of which support disadvantaged inner city children.
A statement issued by Clarence House said: “Having been touched by the goodwill shown them since the announcement of their engagement, Prince William and Miss Middleton have asked that anyone who might wish to give them a wedding gift consider giving instead to a charitable fund. Many of the charities are little known, without existing royal patronage, and undertake excellent work within specific communities. They are charities that have a particular resonance with Prince William and Miss Middleton and reflect issues in which the couple have been particularly interested in their lives to date.”
The announcement is designed to pre-empt the giving of lavish gifts that occurred when Prince Charles married Diana in 1981. Charities associated with the fund say they were delighted by the announcement.
Greenhouse Schools chief executive Michael de Giorgio, whose charity organizes sporting activities for children in London said the inclusion of the charity on the list was tantamount to a royal endorsement.
“The royal couple have shown the level of social entrepreneurship that will be required to tackle the most pressing social problems.” he said
Other charities that have been included are Peace Players which promotes better community relations in Northern Ireland through the teaching of basketball; Oily Cart, a children’s theatre group working specially with disabled groups; Into University, which encourages teenagers to apply for higher education; Beat Bullying; Combat Stress and Cruse Bereavement Care for the children of military casualties.
Australian, New Zealand and Canadian charities have also been included on the list, with the Prince currently undertaking a visit to New Zealand, where he will be meeting with those involved with earthquake relief, before visiting Queensland where Prince William will visit areas affected by the flooding in Queensland.
Donations can be made through the www.royalweddingcharityfund.org website. They will be held in a dedicated account by the Foundation of Prince William and Prince Harry and grants will be distributed in partnership with the charities to ensure maximum impact.
- Peace Players
- Ocean Youth Trust
- Greenhouse Schools
- Oily Cart
- Dance United
- Into University
- Venture Trust
- Beat Bullying
- Keyfund
- A National Voice
- Association for Children’s Palliative Care (ACT)
- Youth Access
- Community Foundation in Wales
- Community Foundation in Scotland
- Community Foundation in Berkshire
- Combat Stress
- Cruse Bereavement Care for Children of Forces’ Families
- Household Cavalry Benevolent Fund
- Irish Guards Appeal
- Army Widows Association
- Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund
- ZSL
- EarthWatch
- The Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary
- New Zealand government’s Christchurch earthquake appeal
- Royal Flying Doctor Service – Australia
