The Pokémon Company and Sony revealed on July 29 that they would be contributing funds to assist regions impacted by the recent earthquake in Japan’s Kumamoto Prefecture.
The powerful magnitude 7.1 earthquake occurred on July 28, resulting in widespread devastation across the area and causing at least 28 fatalities as of the latest reports. Amid ongoing rescue efforts, The Pokémon Company has extended financial support to Kumamoto Prefecture, the Japanese Red Cross Society, and other aid organizations, with a total contribution of 100 million yen (over $600,000 USD). These funds will be utilized for relief initiatives to help victims and to bolster groups involved in the restoration and rebuilding of affected zones.
Sony, which operates a key semiconductor facility in Kumamoto, announced a donation of 50 million yen as emergency aid for the region. The funds will be channeled toward child support programs through the Emergency and Recovery Fund for Children, as well as to assist residents in disaster-affected areas. The corporation will also launch an internal donation matching campaign, matching employee contributions dollar-for-dollar.
Sony Group CEO Hiroki Totoki stated, “I extend my deepest sympathies to all those affected by this earthquake. Kumamoto is a critical center that supports the Sony Group’s operations and is central to our semiconductor business. Since the establishment of the Kumamoto Technology Center in 2001, we have developed alongside the local community, with the support of the region’s people. I sincerely wish for the safety of those impacted and for the swiftest possible recovery and reconstruction of Kumamoto.”
Regarding Sony’s Kumamoto Technology Center, operations were suspended following the earthquake. Although no casualties were reported, an assessment of facility damage is currently underway.