As the New Year approaches, AAR Japan (Association for Aid and Relief) has launched a heartfelt campaign urging the public to contribute unused postcards, stamps, and telephone cards. Even a single postcard can make a significant impact, helping those trapped in difficult circumstances due to conflict or disaster. This initiative not only encourages social contribution but also demonstrates how small actions can lead to meaningful outcomes. AAR effectively utilizes the donated materials to reduce operational costs associated with sending out activity reports and receipts, redirecting those savings toward impactful support activities across 18 countries and regions worldwide.
How Your Donations Help
The items collected will be transformed into direct support for various humanitarian activities. For example, in Ukraine, where the ongoing military conflict severely hampers access to medical care for many disabled individuals, your contribution can provide essential medication. The cost of purchasing forty postcards, each priced at 85 yen, can deliver about a month’s worth of treatment for a person living with chronic conditions such as heart disease.
In Japan, specifically in the Noto region affected by the 2024 earthquake, AAR organizes community salons in temporary housing to combat isolation and foster interaction among displaced individuals. The funds from 260 postcards can facilitate one such gathering, promoting vital community support.
Meanwhile, in Laos, mobility is a significant barrier for many individuals with disabilities. AAR supports the development of hand-pedaled tricycles aimed at enhancing their ability to move about freely. Just 280 postcards, again at 85 yen each, can fund the production of a prototype, potentially transforming lives by providing greater independence.
Further, AAR is actively assisting Ukrainian refugees in Moldova, showcasing a commitment to those affected by hardship. By recycling postcards and stamps, donors play a crucial role in improving the lives of countless people impacted by adversity.
How to Participate
If you're interested in contributing, gather your unused postcards, stamps, and telephone cards, and send them in an envelope to the address below. The campaign runs until April 30, 2026.
Items Needed:
- - Unused New Year postcards or government-issued postcards
- - Unused stamps
- - Unused telephone cards
Send Your Donations to:
AAR Japan
Goods Donation Section
2-12-2 Kamioosaki, Shinagawa-ku
Tokyo, 141-0021, Japan
Contact Us
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at 03-5423-451 (contact: Yagi). You can also find more information about the campaign on our website:
AAR Japan Campaign.
Let’s come together to support those in need this New Year! Your participation, no matter how small, counts significantly and can be the difference between despair and hope for many individuals across the globe.