Prince William has shared a poignant reflection on what would have deeply “disappointed” his late mother, Princess Diana, if she were alive today. He expressed that Diana, known for her tireless humanitarian work, would be saddened by the persistent stigma surrounding homelessness. Speaking candidly, the Duke of Cambridge emphasized how much he wishes his mother could have met his wife and children, a dream that was tragically cut short when Diana died in August 1997 at the age of 36.
Princess Diana’s legacy of compassion has clearly influenced Prince William, who has become a leading advocate for homeless people. In a recent interview with The Mirror about his involvement in Comic Relief’s campaign for the homeless, William revealed, “My mother introduced me to the cause of homelessness from quite a young age, and I’m really glad she did. I think she would be disappointed that we are still no further on in terms of tackling homelessness and preventing it than when she was interested and involved in it.”
Following in his mother’s footsteps, the Duke of Cambridge has dedicated himself to continuing her mission, aiming to elevate it to new heights. As a child, he often accompanied Diana as she supported various causes, which deeply impacted his worldview. Today, he serves as a patron to The Centrepoint and The Passage, two organizations that provide vital support to homeless youth.
William, now 42, has spent considerable time studying the issue of homelessness, immersing himself in the work of charities and even spending time on the streets with Big Issue vendor Dave in 2022 to gain a deeper understanding. Reflecting on his advocacy, he wrote, “While I may seem like one of the most unlikely advocates for this cause, I have always believed in using my platform to help tell those stories and to bring attention and action to those who are struggling.” He emphasized his commitment to shining a “spotlight on this solvable issue not just today, but in the months and years to come.”
Looking to the future, William expressed a strong desire for his children to carry on their grandmother’s legacy. “In the years ahead, I hope to bring George, Charlotte, and Louis to see the fantastic organizations doing inspiring work to support those most in need, just as my mother did for me,” he shared, as reported by People. In 2023, William launched the Homeward project, an ambitious initiative aimed at eradicating homelessness within the next five years and transforming public perceptions of the issue by 2024.
Through his advocacy, Prince William continues to honor Princess Diana’s legacy, working tirelessly to address the challenges she was so passionate about, and ensuring that her mission lives on through the next generation.