New Pokémon Centre to support victims of Tohoku quake

As Japan's Tohoku region struggles to rebuild following the devastating earthquakes of March, a new Pokémon Centre aims to raise funds and provide emotional support for children affected by the far-reaching disaster.

An announcement from The Pokémon Company, as translated by Anime News Network, unveiled the new Pokémon Centre, which will be the seventh in the nation but first in Tohoku.

As part of the disaster relief campaign Pokémon with YOU, the new centre will give away merchandise and organise events for children, as well as continuing fundraising efforts. Its stated intention is to provide a place where children can get together and feel happy.

The new Centre will be housed in the Aer skyscraper in Sendai, and like other outlets, sell a variety of merchandise.

The Tohoku quakes, aftershocks and tsunamis rank among the most severe in modern history, causing record-breaking amounts of damage, nuclear meltdowns, and at least 15,000 deaths, with tens of thousands left homeless or without electricity and water. Humanitarian efforts continue to appeal for donations to assist in rebuilding and providing aid to the stricken residents.

Thanks, GoNintendo.