The Pokémon Company International has announced a pledge of a minimum of $25 million over the next five years to organizations that focus on improving the lives of children and also supporting social equity.
“The Pokémon Company International is grateful for the opportunity to give back to the communities in which it operates and where Pokémon has been so warmly received since it was first introduced,” said Kenji Okubo, president of The Pokémon Company International. “Pokémon is a brand that immediately sparks joy and has captured the imaginations of kids around the world for 25 years. With its universal themes of adventure, friendship, and perseverance, it has also been welcomed into the lives of an incredibly diverse fanbase in countries around the world. We are dedicated to leveraging that unique ability and the support we’ve received from our broad community of Trainers to be a positive force in the lives of children and create a more equitable, inclusive world in which all can flourish.”
The money will be primarily monetary donations sent to predetermined charities and communities. This also means there will be a “gift of play” in the form of in-kind donations of Pokémon Trading Card Game and Pokémon Center products given to groups that will then distribute toys and games to families and children in need.
The Pokémon Company International has hopes that these partners will stay long-term that can help achieve these goals over the next five years.
Furthermore, the International arm acts as a global citizen and has identified groups operating in three geographical categories: global, regional, and local.
“Organizations that operate without borders and serve children in need in locations around the world represent the first category, while the regional level includes organizations operating within countries where the Pokémon brand has a significant presence across Europe, Latin America, North America, and Oceania,” confirms an official press release.
“Lastly, The Pokémon Company International will be partnering with groups serving the local communities where it has offices in and around Bellevue, Washington, and London, UK.”
