In a demonstration of solidarity and support, the Pokémon Company has donated two hundred thousand dollars to help fund humanitarian relief efforts in Ukraine. The Pokémon franchise is well-loved around the world, with the games celebrated by younger and older fans alike. The company’s decision to speak out and actively support the people of Ukraine as they deal with unimaginable hardship is a reminder that the gaming industry and community have the power to extend more than just virtual enjoyment.
For the past week, the country of Ukraine has been fighting against the invasion of Russian forces, united in a battle for freedom. Over a million of Ukraine’s citizens have been forced to leave their country, and cities have endured damages that have destroyed homes, public buildings, and crucial resources. Many people have been left without access to clean water, electricity, or safe shelter, making humanitarian aid critical for both those who have found themselves displaced and the Ukrainian troops that continue to fight against the invading forces.
In an effort to assist Ukraine, as announced on the Pokémon Company’s Twitter account, two hundred thousand dollars have been donated through the nonprofit organization GlobalGiving to assist in humanitarian relief efforts. The post details that the donation will “efficiently direct the funds to community-led organizations supporting families and children affected by the crisis.” It also directs those looking for more information to visit GlobalGiving.org, where people also looking to support the relief efforts can donate.
While the donation won’t be enough to rebuild the homes and communities that have been unfairly caught in the conflict, the Pokémon Company’s efforts will hopefully help supply resources to those in need of immediate relief. It is heartbreaking that instead of designing exciting Pokémon adventures, a time has come when the company must provide humanitarian relief like clothing, water, and medical supplies. However, it is wonderful to know that a company known for family content is willing to step up and support the impacted children and families suffering through this crisis and extend a bit of hope through the relief donations.
Hopefully, the Pokémon Company’s involvement will be a call-to-action for other franchises, encouraging companies to donate in support of the relief efforts. For those actively affected or watching the Ukrainian crisis unfold, new game announcements, upcoming events, and console ports have taken a back seat. The Pokémon Company, which celebrated its 26th anniversary and the announcement of the upcoming Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Generation Nine games last weekend, is showing that the relief of a devastated community should be the current focus. Hopefully, the Pokémon Company’s contribution will help fans of the franchise currently impacted know that support is pouring in from all over the world.
Source: Pokémon Company/Twitter, GlobalGiving
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Author: Laura Gray
