The Michi no Cafe project provides assistance for the recovery of areas devastated by the Great East Japan Earthquake. Jointly coordinated by Canon, Starbucks, the Matsushita Institute of Government and Management, and others, the project creates a place where disaster victims can enjoy a cup of coffee at an open cafe. Photojournalists capture images of visitors to the cafe, who gather to enjoy a moment of relaxation. A PIXUS (PIXMA) inkjet printer prints out the images, which are then given out as souvenirs on the spot. Canon has participated twice in these activities.

Canon recently prepared photo albums as part of this project. The albums acquaint people with the Michi no Cafe and introduce the continuing recovery efforts in the stricken areas. Using the PIXUS (PIXMA) printer, the photos taken at the Michi no Cafe sites were output on such print media as photographic paper and art paper while Starbucks staff used their creativity to instill the albums with a warm, handmade feel.

Twenty four Starbucks shops throughout Japan have been displaying the albums since March 11 to mark a year since the earthquake struck. All of these shops have staff members who participated in the Michi no Cafe. We would like as many people as possible to learn more about the affected areas, not only by viewing the photo albums, but also by talking directly to the staff about the activities they took part in. Furthermore, by sharing photos of the Tohoku region's valiant rebuilding efforts with people across Japan, we hope to provide medium- to long-term support for the recovery.

For information regarding which Starbucks shops are displaying photo albums, please refer to the following website (Japanese only):

Michi no Cafe : Recovery Assistance Project
http://www.michinocafe.com/