Words by Tess Becker
Hawaii was recently wracked with wildfires. Many of the homes on one of the state’s largest islands have burned to the ground displacing thousands of people.
The Pokémon Company, the company responsible for the highest-grossing media franchise in the world, was slated to have a tournament in Honolulu at the end of this year. To show support for those affected by wildfires the company donated $200k to a Hawaii Wildfire Relief Fund after announcing Honolulu as the location of next year's Pokémon World Championship.
“Our hearts go out to all those who have been impacted by the devastating wildfires in Hawaii,” reads the social media post, explaining its donation of $200k would go to the Hawaii Wildfire Relief Fund through GlobalGiving.
There were even Pokémon games based on Hawaii a few years ago called Sun and Moon set in the Alola region, so the connection to the island state goes deep.
In the meantime donate what you can to support the people affected by the wildfires and at the urging of Hawaii natives, don’t travel to the island.
“Do not travel to Maui,” Aquaman actor and native Hawaiian Jason Momoa said. “Do not convince yourself that your presence is needed on an island that is suffering this deeply.”
Charity check-in
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
The Women Invested to Save Earth Fund. This organization helps support underrepresented and underfunded Black, indigenous, and women of color-led organizations across the world. Find out more and support them here.
Collective Sun. They help nonprofits get outfitted with solar power capabilities. Check them out here.
Florida Bicycle Association. An organization that helps mobilize people and promote greener living and safer biking. Find out more.
