#Japan #Tokyo #Foster Care #Key Asset

Discovering the Importance of Foster Care in Japan

Every year on October 4th, Japan observes 'Foster Parent Day,' a day dedicated to raising awareness about the vital role of foster care in nurturing the future of children. The foster care system encourages communities to come together and ensure that children facing difficult circumstances receive the love and support they deserve. Throughout October and November, designated as "Foster Parent Month," the non-profit organization Key Asset collaborates with local governments in Tokyo to host the "Foster Family Experience Sharing Event."

This pivotal event invites attendees to hear firsthand accounts from foster parents who will share their parenting experiences, as well as narratives from former children in care reflecting on their past lives with foster families. Participants will gain insights into the joys and challenges of fostering, fostering relationships with children, and the complex emotions involved when welcoming a child into a home.

Key Asset’s mission is to provide a nurturing environment for children who, for various reasons, cannot live with their biological families. The organization helps increase the number of foster families while supporting both foster parents and young adults who have transitioned out of care. By attending this event, community members will gain a deeper understanding of the foster system and how they can contribute.

Current State of Foster Care in Japan

Statistics

• - Registered Foster Families: 16,817 households
• - Foster Care Cases: 4,940 households
• - Children in Care: 6,217 children
• - Family Homes: 467 small-scale residential care homes with 1,715 children in care

Family homes provide essential care for children who have lost their family environments, administered by experienced caregivers such as foster parents or childcare facility staff.

Financial Support for Foster Parents

Government Assistance

• - Foster Parent Allowance: ¥90,000/month (¥90,000 for each additional child)
• - General Living Expenses: ¥64,120 for infants / ¥55,530 for older children
• - Additional Costs: Costs related to preschool, education, medical visits, and school preparation

The government's support system aims to ease the financial burden on foster families, emphasizing the importance of fostering children in a supportive home environment.

Challenges Facing the Foster Care System

Despite the emphasis on the importance of family-based care established by revisions to child welfare laws, the reality remains stark. The proportion of children in care placed with foster families stands at approximately 20%, with many residing in institutional care.

The Reality of Placements

Around 70% of registered foster parents remain without placements. This challenge stems from mismatches between the preferences of registered foster families and the needs of children, particularly among dual-income households who constitute over half of the total foster parents.

Awareness of Foster Care

Surveys reveal that nearly 60% of the population is either completely unaware of the challenges and realities within the foster care system or have minimal knowledge. Increasing public awareness is critical for fostering the next generation of caretakers who can provide loving homes for vulnerable children.

Upcoming Foster Family Experience Sharing Event Schedule

In Tokyo, numerous events are scheduled throughout October and November, during which community members can learn more about the foster care system, hear directly from foster parents, and connect with former children in care. This year's schedule will be available on Key Asset's website, alongside applications for participation.

About Key Asset

Operating out of Osaka since 2012, Key Asset undertakes various foster care-related projects in collaboration with multiple prefectures and designated cities. The organization works towards improving foster care support systems while actively engaging with community services to ensure a robust support network for children and families.

General inquiries about the event, media coverage, or interviews should be directed to the public relations team at Key Asset, where they remain committed to fostering a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive in a loving environment.

For more information and to get involved, consider participating in this year’s event and making a tangible difference in the community.

Contact:
Katō, Public Relations Officer
Key Asset, Tokyo Kokubunji Office