As this year ends, marked by unimaginable global challenges, I feel a deep sense to do whatever little good thing I can.
This Christmas, I'm turning my attention to some inspiring charities in Japan. They've been beacons of hope for so many people here amid these tough times. I'd love to share their stories with you and perhaps inspire a wave of kindness and support. Let's bring some light into these dark times together.
I have found five charities with causes I truly believe in:
Japan Association for Refugees (JAR) (EN here) aims to restore the rights lost by refugees coming in contact with Japan’s lacking refugee system by securing freedom and safety, ensuring forced repatriation does not happen, and safeguarding medical living and housing.
Shine On! Kids supports children in Japan with cancer and other serious illnesses through a number of innovative, evidence-based psycho-social support programs such as dog-therapy.
Second Harvest is Japan’s first food bank whose main activities involve collecting food donations from companies, manufacturers, farmers and individuals with the purpose of distributing it to people living in shelters, orphanages, elderly support institutions and areas stricken by natural disasters.
Hands On Tokyo collaborates with many local organizations to encourage volunteering in Tokyo to revitalize playgrounds, deliver food to the hungry, support people with visual impairment and inspire children in children’s homes and much more.
TELL is dedicated to providing world-class, effective support and counseling services to Japan’s international community as well as helping to address the country’s growing mental health-care needs. Their outreach programs include company stress checks, suicide awareness and prevention, disaster relief, child protection and anti-bullying.
Great list! I've been donating to Second Harvest Japan for a couple of years now. They do good work.