Kate Middleton and Prince Wiliam's Royal Wedding Fund Raises $1.7 Million

Kate Middleton and Prince William requested Royal Wedding well-wishers make charitable donations instead of buying wedding gifts, and their request has paid off to the tune of nearly $1.7 million USD.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge set up their own fund - the Royal Wedding Charitable Gift Fund - for the purpose of collecting wedding donations, handpicking the 26 charites that would benefit from the gifts.

Among the chosen charities are Beatbullying, the Venture Trust, Ocean Youth Trust UK, and Earthwatch - along with The Foundation of Prince William and Prince Harry.

The brothers set up their foundation in 2009 to create support for disadvantaged youth; environmental concerns; and service men and women and their families. The foundation carries on the legacy of their mother, Princess Diana, who was famously active in charitable and humanitarian efforts.

Although the majority of the £1.058 sterling donations were made through the Royal Wedding Charitable Gift Fund website, contributions were also made by vendors who received revenue from projects connected to the wedding. Some donations were also made directly to the Foundation of Prince William and Prince Harry.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are delighted that these charities are able to benefit so positively from their special day, said a St. James Palace spokesperson. They would like to thank everyone who donated and contributed so generously to the charitable fund and for all the kindness and support shown to them throughout the wedding period.

[Source: The Mirror]