#Japan #Employment Support #Yoshikawa #Toy Museum Cafe #檸檬会

Toy Museum Cafe: A New Employment Opportunity for Disabled Individuals

On September 1, 2025, Toy Museum Cafe located in Aeon Town Yoshikawa Minami was officially designated as a B-type employment support facility by Yoshikawa City. This designation allows the cafe to provide tailored employment training for individuals with disabilities, enabling them to work at their own pace with support from trained staff.

The cafe, which opened on July 1, specializes in nutritious meals and desserts curated by registered dietitians overseeing meal plans for the associated Raymond Nursery. Popular among patrons is their signature menu item—the 'Gentle Meal Set.' This initiative not only promotes healthy eating but also fosters an inclusive work environment for disabled individuals.

Special Features of Employment Support at Toy Museum Cafe

• - Flexible Scheduling: Participants can choose work hours ranging from three hours a day to full-time.
• - Real Work Environment: The cafe is designed to closely replicate a regular workplace atmosphere.
• - Regular Wage Reviews: Wages are assessed four times a year, mirroring regular employment practices.
• - Support for Social Reintegration: The cafe is open to individuals who may not thrive in standard employment or A-type facilities.
• - Employee Discounts and Meal Assistance: Staff receive nutritional meal support and discounts on purchases.
• - Convenient Location: The facility is easily accessible as it is situated right next to a major commercial establishment.
• - Stylish Uniforms: Employees are provided with fashionable uniforms for their roles.

Job Opportunities

Tasks available to participants include:

• - Customer service (cashier duties, guidance, food delivery)
• - Kitchen and back-end work (supplies replenishment, dishwashing, cleaning, kitchen assistance)

The design of this employment program focuses on understanding each user’s aspirations and skills, allowing them to participate in decision-making about their tasks. Unlike typical B-type facilities, which often limit participants to simple tasks, Toy Museum Cafe encourages them to explore their potential without restrictions. Individuals can take on new responsibilities based on their skill sets and interests, contributing to a sense of accomplishment and personal growth.
Participants also receive wages as compensation for their work, and the opportunity for wage review further reinforces the cafe’s commitment to providing a supportive work environment.

Overview of B-Type Employment Support Services

B-type employment support services cater to individuals aged 18 and older with various disabilities, allowing them to receive hands-on training and work at a manageable pace. These services extend beyond mere productivity, aiming to develop essential skills—such as work etiquette and communication abilities—while promoting social participation.

Target Users: Adults aged 18 and older with physical, intellectual, mental, or developmental disabilities. The service fee may vary based on household income.

Facility Details:

• - Service Type: B-Type Employment Support
• - Name: Toy Museum Cafe
• - Address: 3-25-1 Minami, Yoshikawa City, Saitama, Japan, Aeon Town Yoshikawa Minami 1st Floor, East Building
• - Access: Approximately 2 minutes' walk from JR Yoshikawa Minami Station
• - Operating Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (cafe remains open until 8:00 PM)
• - Website: Toy Museum Cafe

About 檸檬会

Social Welfare Corporation 檸檬会 operates various facilities including Raymond Nursery and supports social welfare projects involving child development assistance, employment training, and group homes. In line with their vision of achieving 'Social Inclusion,' they established the 'Social Inclusion Village' in 2023 to create a comprehensive community where everyone can learn, play, and thrive together.
With 91 facilities across 12 prefectures, 檸檬会 is dedicated to addressing societal challenges and fostering environments that promote shared values and collaboration.

• - Organization Name: Social Welfare Corporation 檸檬会 (Lemon Association)
• - Representative: Director Kitaro Maeda
• - Headquarters: 240 Kowada, Kinokawa City, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan
• - Established: February 2007
• - Workforce: Approximately 1,920 employees as of April 2025
• - Website: Lemon Association