Royal Family to Host Major Humanitarian Reception at Buckingham Palace
Their Majesties The King and Queen will lead a special reception at Buckingham Palace this Thursday to celebrate the vital work of humanitarian organizations and mark significant milestones of four global charities.
The event, which will also be attended by The Princess Royal and The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, brings together exceptional individuals and organizations dedicated to humanitarian efforts worldwide. The reception will honor four charities marking major anniversaries: International Health Partners (20 years), ShelterBox (25 years), Islamic Relief (40 years), and Christian Aid (80 years).
International Health Partners, of which The King has been Patron since 2004, has made remarkable strides in providing essential medicines to disaster-hit and vulnerable communities. Over its two decades of service, the organization has helped more than 100 million people across 76 countries access vital healthcare.
ShelterBox, which has enjoyed The Queen's patronage since 2007 (initially as President when she was Duchess of Cornwall), has provided emergency shelter and essential household items to more than three million people affected by disasters, conflict, and climate crises - supporting an average of 300 people daily.
Islamic Relief, founded in Birmingham in 1984, has grown into one of the world's largest faith-inspired charities. In 2024 alone, the organization reached over 17 million people through its various humanitarian and development programs across more than 40 countries.
Christian Aid, celebrating its 80th anniversary, began its work in 1945 responding to the refugee crisis following World War II. As the official development agency of 41 sponsoring churches in Britain and Ireland, the organization continues its mission of tackling poverty's root causes and responding to humanitarian emergencies worldwide.
During the reception, Their Majesties will view displays highlighting the work of these organizations and hear stories from volunteers. They will also examine a collection of 15 images from the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC), showcasing humanitarian work in regions including Afghanistan, Ukraine, Pakistan, Turkey-Syria, Sudan, and Gaza.
This gathering underscores the Royal Family's ongoing commitment to supporting humanitarian causes and recognizing those who dedicate themselves to helping others in times of crisis.
