Providing a Safe Haven for Vulnerable Youth During New Year Holidays

A Warm Welcome to Vulnerable Youth at Koshikichi

During the New Year period from December 30, 2025, to January 3, 2026, the non-profit organization Sankakusha will open a temporary safe space called "Koshikichi". This initiative specifically targets young individuals aged 15 to 25 who may not have reliable adults to turn to.

While the festive season is often filled with family and friend gatherings, many young people face feelings of isolation during this time. Without access to schools, workplaces, and most public spaces, these individuals may find themselves alone, creating potential risks for their well-being. The organization aims to provide a warm and secure environment where these young individuals can gather and share experiences over the New Year.

Background of Isolation and Struggles During the Holidays

The holiday season beautifully contrasts the struggles of many young individuals who feel disconnected or unable to return home due to various circumstances, such as familial issues or lack of support. Some may be in tenuous living situations, opting to spend nights in places like internet cafes or convenience stores, which often have reduced operations during the holiday season. This leaves those young people effectively homeless.

With few resources to turn to for help during this period, young people can feel like they have nowhere to go when faced with emergencies or difficult life situations. Police and emergency services have available access, but the lack of operational support services during the holidays exacerbates this issue. The need for assistance during this time is evident with an upsurge in requests for support.

Increased Demand and Escalating Issues

Koshikichi aimed to address these escalating concerns by providing a safe space during the past holiday seasons. In late 2024, the initiative saw a notable uptick in emergency consultations regarding housing and safety, emphasizing the growing difficulty many youth experience.

As of November 2025, inquiries regarding living situations have increased by approximately 10% compared to the previous year, showcasing a disturbing trend in growing young people's needs as they attempt to navigate life’s pressures alone. Increased networking efforts from various organizations, schools, and administrative bodies to refer young people to Koshikushi have also been noted.

In addition to housing concerns, many youth are turning to gig work through food delivery and temporary jobs to survive. However, the reduced job availability during the New Year creates additional financial strain, leading to more individuals seeking help.

Sankakusha’s Vision: A Non-Pressuring Space

A key aspect of this initiative is to create a judgment-free environment for young individuals to find comfort and solace, free from being labeled as "people in need". The organization has emphasized the importance of allowing youth the freedom to simply exist in a supportive atmosphere, rather than constantly having to provide justification for their circumstances.

Koshikichi aims to foster community comfort by creating an environment that lets individuals thrive in their own uniquely personal ways without the typical pressures related to societal expectations or personal circumstances.

Gathering Details

The Koshikichi will be located just a 6-minute walk from Itabashi Station, at 4-35-12 Kamiikebukuro, Toshima Ward, Tokyo. The environment will be welcoming and accessible to any young individuals in need at no financial cost. Safety is ensured with operational hours thoughtfully planned:

- December 30: 14:00 - 21:00
- December 31 - January 1: 14:00 - following day 12:00
- January 2 - 3: 14:00 - 21:00

What Koshikichi Offers:

- Safety and Shelter: A place to gather, play games, chat, rest, and simply be. Facilities such as Wi-Fi and charging stations will be available.
- Warm Meals: Attendees will be provided with warm meals prepared by staff.
- Engaging Events: Activities like traditional rice cake making will be organized alongside other festive initiatives to foster togetherness.
- Consultative Support: Access to individual consultations regarding housing, jobs, and personal concerns.

How to Participate

Prospective attendees are encouraged to contact Koshikichi through the official LINE link on their administration page. Note that new consultations are temporarily paused and are expected to resume on December 20, 2025.

About Sankakusha

Sankakusha is dedicated to supporting young people aged 15 to 25 who lack support from parents or trusted adults. The organization focuses on assisting youth in finding shelter, stability, and connection with the community. Through compassionate guidance, Sankakusha strives to help youth regain their sense of agency in a safe and supportive environment.

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