#Japan #Fujisawa #Kodomo Furusato Bin #Tsushima Fish #Nessu Corporation

Supporting Children through Local Fish in Kanagawa

In a remarkable initiative that combines philanthropy and food support, Nessu Corporation, based in Setagaya, Tokyo, has introduced the 'Kodomo Furusato Bin' project. Utilizing the powers of the Furusato tax system, the company aims to deliver regional special products and experiences as 'support items' to children's cafeterias, single-parent households, and children facing serious illnesses.

On November 22, 2025, as part of a project that began fundraising in August of the same year, local fish from Tsushima, Nagasaki Prefecture, was provided to a children's cafeteria in Fujisawa, Kanagawa. This initiative not only seeks to share the ocean's bounties but to promote environmental sustainability and teach children about Japanese seafood cultures.

Tapping into Tsushima's Rich Marine Resources

Tsushima City, known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history, is home to diverse marine life due to unique ocean currents and seafloor geography. The 'Kodomo Furusato Bin' project turns these local treasures into support items delivered to cafeterias nationwide, thereby offering children opportunities to experience the richness of Tsushima's marine offerings.

Additionally, Tsushima hosts a variety of underutilized fish and seafood products that often remain unsold in local markets. By showcasing these ingredients, the project aims to educate children about the delightful flavors of Tsushima's fish, while also promoting a culture of eating seafood. Using underutilized fish helps sustain local fisheries and prevents waste of marine resources, forming a sustainable system.

This initiative is particularly impactful as many underused fish types come from species that harm seaweed ecosystems. By addressing this issue and providing culinary innovation, the project simultaneously contributes to marine conservation. Recently, its efforts were recognized with the Certified Consumer Agency Commissioner’s Award for Food Loss Reduction in the 2023 fiscal year.

A Memorable Day at Fuku-chan Dining

On November 22, 2025, children's cafeteria 'Yume-chan Shokudo' in Fujisawa served delicious dishes made from processed underutilized fish known as Aigo caught in Tsushima. The cafeteria benefits from the support of local parent-teacher associations, community organizations, and volunteers, hosting around 120 participants each month, out of which 80 are children.

On this occasion, the Aigo was crafted in a child-friendly manner by the volunteer staff, who soaked the fish in sake for several hours to lessen its strong flavor and stir-fried it with onions and ketchup. The meal included croquettes, a salad, and side dishes featuring the unique fish, bringing a memorable dining experience for children.

In the temple grounds where the event took place, children enjoyed their meals like a picnic on blankets spread out, sharing warm moments that showcased the unusual island cuisine. Parents and children alike expressed curiosity and excitement about discovering this rare seafood.

Voices from Participants and Volunteers

The feedback from various participants and volunteers was overwhelmingly positive:

• - Volunteer Staff: “We usually can’t provide fish, so receiving this donation is incredibly valuable.”

“We modified the Aigo fish to be more palatable for children by marinating it in sake beforehand and cooking it with onions.”

• - Participants: “I’ve never heard of Aigo fish before, but it was delicious and easy to eat.”

“I don’t often eat fish, so I appreciate this opportunity to try something new.”

The project continues to accept donations through the 'Kodomo Furusato Bin' page, aiming to expand its reach and positively impact more children's lives throughout Japan.

Overview of 'Kodomo Furusato Bin'

Started in 2023, the 'Kodomo Furusato Bin' utilizes the Furusato tax system to collaborate with producers, agricultural cooperatives, fisheries, and food manufacturers to deliver local products as support items to children’s cafeterias and families facing difficulties.

Currently involving six municipalities, the project plans to expand to 10-20 regions by 2025, linking donors’ goodwill directly to feeding children while supporting local economies and reducing food waste.
For more information, visit the official site: Kodomo Furusato

About Nessu Corporation

• - CEO: Yuuki Kido
• - Founded: June 10, 2022
• - Location: 4-44-4 Daisawa, Setagaya, Tokyo 155-0032
• - Website: Nessu Corporation

Entering the sphere of social innovation, Nessu Corporation aims for a society where children have equal opportunities regardless of their backgrounds. The organization collaborates with municipal entities, businesses, and individuals to bridge their desires for a better future for children, eliminating disparities in food and experiences.

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