#Japan #Tokyo #Hello Kitty #Sanrio Nakayoku #PomPomPurinn

Sanrio's Charitable Initiative: Wheelchair Donation

On August 4, 2025, Sanrio, a prominent Japanese character goods company, made a significant contribution to the Japanese Red Cross by donating 47 wheelchairs adorned with beloved character designs. This initiative is part of the Sanrio Nakayoku Project, which aims to spread smiles and joy to people around the world.

The ceremony took place at the headquarters of the Japanese Red Cross in Minato-ku, Tokyo, and was attended by notable personalities, including Paralympic alpine skier Momoka Muraoka, who represented the spirit of resilience and inspiration during the event. Muraoka, who has been supported by Hello Kitty in her journey, expressed her excitement about the wheelchairs, emphasizing their design that features characters like Hello Kitty, Pompompurin, and Pochacco.

The wheelchairs are intended for use in pediatric wards at 47 Red Cross hospitals located throughout Japan, set to provide comfort and a sense of companionship to young patients battling illnesses. Each wheelchair is uniquely designed, ensuring that they are both functional and appealing to children. Having these beloved Sanrio characters accompanying them is expected to elicit smiles and positivity among the children receiving care.

Comments from Leaders

At the donation ceremony, Yasunori Chida, Vice Director of the Japanese Red Cross's Medical Business Promotion Department, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the donation. He remarked that the presence of these colorful wheelchairs adorned with adorable characters would surely uplift the spirits of children in hospitals. He envisions the smiles of children receiving treatment and sees these characters as silent companions that will provide encouragement and hope during tough times.

Momoka Muraoka also shared her thoughts on the significance of these wheelchairs. She remarked, "The character designs are cute and very user-friendly. For me, a wheelchair has always been a vital part of my life. I remember decorating mine with Hello Kitty stickers as a child, which inspired me. I hope these children, too, can find joy and a brighter future through the presence of these characters during their hospital stay and rehabilitation."

Sanrio’s Ongoing Commitment

In line with its corporate philosophy, 'everyone can get along,' Sanrio continues to promote the vision of making the world a happier place through the Sanrio Nakayoku Project. This initiative has seen immense success over the years, with Sanrio character visits to hospitals and disaster areas, positively impacting the lives of countless children in need since its inception.

Besides the wheelchair project, Sanrio has collaborated with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to promote hygiene awareness globally, distributing educational materials and videos, including the popular 'Let’s wash our hands with Hello Kitty,' reaching numerous individuals across various countries.

Future Plans

Sanrio has ambitious plans for the future, which include donating 100,000 educational supplies to children in need globally, efforts to support young caregivers in Tokyo, and establishing 'Sanrio Volunteer Month' every November to encourage volunteer activities across the Sanrio group employees.

With the hearts of people and communities at the forefront of its mission, Sanrio continues to work tirelessly to ensure that happiness and hope reach every child, reinforcing the significance of kindness and togetherness in our world.

To learn more about the Sanrio Nakayoku Project, visit their official website.