YHP Japan
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Location
National
Timing
2021- 2024
The local context
In Japan, there are many Kodomo Shokudo, or children’s cafeterias, across the nation. These cafeterias provide free and low-priced meals to children.
One out of every seven children live in relative poverty in Japan. This has a direct correlation to poor nutrition1. The first Kodomo Shokudo was launched by volunteers in 2012 in Tokyo to address this issue and there are now over 4,960 Kodomo Shokudo across the country2.
Kodomo Shokudo provides Japanese children with the opportunity to interact with peers of different ages. Staff are trained to identify children who may need additional support so that their individual health challenges can be supported.
Our objectives
To improve the knowledge and importance of healthy eating among young people in Japan, contributing to the prevention of non-communicable diseases.
Our programme
The programme focuses on supporting children’s cafeterias with nutritional education to prevent non-communicable diseases, enabling young people to live healthier lives.
It also provides an opportunity to AstraZeneca employees to participate in volunteer activities.
Our partners
Musubie (meaning to know, link or tie) acts as an intermediary, offering vital support to the children’s cafeterias (kodomo shokudo) and connecting with corporations and organisations who are interested in community development to provide assistance to children’s cafeterias. They aim to ensure that children’s cafeterias provide sanctuary to all children and adults.
For more information visit musubie.org.
References
1. Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare “Comprehensive Survey of Living Conditions in 2020".
2. Cooperative study by Musubie and Local network on Dec 2020.
Photo Credits: Musubie, a recognised incorporated non-profit organisation (NPO) as a Nationwide Children’s Cafeteria Support Center.