#Japan #Saga #Saga Prefecture #Good Neighbors #Good Rice

Support for Single-Parent Families in Saga Prefecture

In an ambitious effort to combat hunger among single-parent families, Good Neighbors Japan, a certified NPO based in Ota, Tokyo, has launched a fundraising campaign running from November 21, 2025, to January 31, 2026. This initiative, part of the 'Good Rice' project, aims to provide monthly food support to struggling families in Saga Prefecture through a unique government crowdfunding program.

Background of the Project

According to the 2022 National Life Basic Survey conducted by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, the poverty rate among single-parent families in Japan remains alarmingly high at around 44.5%. The recent rise in living costs has made it even more challenging for these families to afford regular meals. Good Neighbors Japan conducted a survey among families utilizing the 'Good Rice' program, revealing that nearly half of the respondents earn less than 2 million yen annually. A staggering 90% of these families reported difficulties in purchasing essential groceries such as rice, meat, and vegetables.

Many distressing comments have surfaced from the beneficiaries, such as: "Previously, I could stretch meals with vegetables or fill up on rice, but now prices for both have doubled, forcing us to reduce our portions." Others shared, "It's becoming increasingly challenging to feed my children adequately; I often sacrifice my own meals to ensure they have enough to eat." These voices highlight the urgent need for immediate action to alleviate hunger and provide food security for as many children and families as possible.

The fundraising initiative aims to expand the scale of assistance and ensure that more households receive the necessary food supplies. By utilizing the hometown tax scheme, Good Neighbors Japan aims to strengthen its capacity to deliver food to those in need.

Project Overview

From November 21, 2025, to January 31, 2026, donations can be made to the project through the Saga Prefecture's hometown tax program. Every donation will contribute toward the operation of providing around 10,000 yen worth of food monthly to participating single-parent families. The funding will also be used to purchase grocery items that cannot be obtained through in-kind donations. The initiative is expected to assist approximately 1,200 households in Kyushu each month.

Features of the Hometown Tax Crowdfunding

1. Choose Your Project: Donors can select the projects they wish to support.
2. Tax Benefits: Donations exceeding 2,000 yen are eligible for deductions from income and resident taxes, meaning donors can contribute effectively for just a 2,000 yen out-of-pocket cost while actively participating in solving social issues.

How to Contribute

We invite everyone to participate via the Saga Prefecture's government crowdfunding initiative. Your donations will play a critical role in building a support system for single-parent families. Together, let's work towards ensuring that no child goes hungry.

Contact Information

For inquiries related to this initiative, please reach out to:
Good Neighbors Japan
Phone: 03-6423-1768
Email: [email protected]
Website: Good Neighbors Japan