#Japan #Yokohama #Local Produce #Pal System Kanagawa #Tsurumi Center

A Celebration of Local Produce and International Awareness in Yokohama

On May 31, from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM, the Pal System Kanagawa’s Tsurumi Center in Yokohama will open its doors to the community for a special event designed to celebrate local produce and foster global awareness. This event, which combines tasting sessions and workshops, aims to engage community members with both local vendors and international charities.

The event will showcase products from 17 local producers, including fruits, seafood, and meats, allowing visitors to sample a wide range of items while learning about their origins. Notably, attendees can taste locally produced ume (plum) and citrus products, alongside various seasonal vegetables.

Further enriching the experience, attendees will meet representatives from 11 local organizations that support community activities, particularly those focused on employment support for people with disabilities. Handmade arts and crafts will be available for purchase, showcasing the creativity and talent of local artisans. There will also be opportunities to engage with food-related initiatives addressing waste reduction through a food drive and discussions on sustainability. Participants can enjoy health checks and quizzes aimed at promoting environmental awareness, reflecting Pal System Kanagawa’s commitment to integrating these themes into their broader mission.

This year's event aligns with the International Year of Cooperatives, which the UN has designated for 2025. It offers a platform for various organizations, including those supporting people from Laos, Iraq, Gaza, and Ukraine. Specific activities, such as workshops where participants can write their names in Lao or create traditional Ukrainian motanka dolls, will help convey the stories of those living through difficult circumstances. Additionally, the Kanagawa UNICEF Association will present a panel on the issue of child marriage faced by children in Ghana.

As global challenges like military conflicts and economic tensions grow, the event highlights the importance of cooperative movements in addressing poverty and hunger, promoting social inclusion, and fostering dialogue on peace. Pal System Kanagawa encourages attendees to reflect on these issues and their personal implications for living in a cooperative and supportive community.

Event Details

• - Event Name: Tsurumi Center Festival and Mini Heart Café
• - Date and Time: May 31, 2025, from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM
• - Location: Pal System Kanagawa Tsurumi Center, 22-6 Kansei-cho, Tsurumi Ward, Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture
• - Access: A 3-minute walk from Anzen Station on the JR Tsurumi Line
• - Charge: Free entry (Bring your own bags as no carry bags will be provided)
• - Registration: Not required

The Pal System Kanagawa is committed to nurturing a sustainable community and enhancing the quality of life for its members. With a membership base of 360,000 and an annual business revenue of 55.38 billion yen as of March 2024, it stands as a vital cooperative in the region. More information is available on their website at Pal System Kanagawa.

Join us for a meaningful day filled with delicious local produce, immersive workshops, and inspiring discussions around peace and community engagement!