TORONTO (CityWire) - The Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre (JCCC) extends its deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy to the victims, their families and friends who lost loved ones and are suffering from Friday's earthquake and tsunami in Japan. Last night the Board Members of the JCCC committed $100,000 from the April 9th Sakura Ball to Japan's earthquake relief in addition to other community support.

The JCCC is also planning a series of benefit events including a concert and has set up a Japan Earthquake Relief Fund as part of its foundation. The JCCC Foundation is already accepting donations. To donate directly to JCCC Foundation - Japan Earthquake Relief Fund at the JCCC Foundation go to www.jccc.on.ca.

JCCC President Gary Kawaguchi said, "The Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre is in the midst of a major capital fundraising campaign to retire building debt and the Sakura Ball is a signature event for our campaign. However the tragedy in Japan has changed our priorities and we believe that helping the people and families of Japan is a more urgent need so we are redirecting our focus of effort"

The Sakura Ball Gala will be held at the JCCC on April 9 and honours iconic Canadian environmentalist, Dr. David Suzuki.

With over 4,400 members and 200,000 annual visitors, the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre is one of the largest Japanese cultural centres in the world. The JCCC plans to celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2013. The Japanese Canadian Cultural Centrehosts a broad spectrum of martial arts, traditional and contemporary arts programs and performances, a busy cinema program and is home of the J-Cinema project that includes the annual Shinsedai Cinema Festival. The JCCC Foundation's registered charity - No. 884054404RR0001. For more information visit www.jccc.on.ca or call 416-441-2345.