Continuing Support for Fukushima Disaster Victims in 2025
Pal System Federation, based in Shinjuku, has announced a significant allocation of funds for the fiscal year 2025 to assist victims of the Fukushima nuclear disaster. A total of
6,245,000 yen will be distributed to
20 organizations that actively support survivors through various programs such as thyroid screenings, community exchange programs, and restorative camps.
Since 2011, Pal System has played an essential role in supporting victims of the Great East Japan Earthquake and the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident. Their humanitarian efforts include a specific fundraising initiative called the “Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Disaster Victims Support Fund,” which successfully raised
11,105,360 yen from its users between
April 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025. Added to this sum were additional donations amounting to
605,000 yen from the Pal System Mutual Aid Association, totaling their financial support for victims.
The allocation for 2025 was finalized following a thorough review by the Management Committee for the Support Fund. The funds will be utilized for various beneficiary activities aimed at helping survivors and evacuees. This includes thyroid health check-ups, organizing educational study tours for young generations unaware of the disaster, and various wellness activities for those affected. Any remaining funds will be carried over to support activities in the subsequent year.
Key Supporting Organizations
Among the organizations chosen to receive funding, several noteworthy groups have been highlighted:
1.
3.11 Thyroid Cancer Children’s Fund
Established in 2016, this organization specifically aids children diagnosed with thyroid cancer post-accident and their families, addressing their financial and emotional burdens. They provide medical expense coverage for individuals under 18 at the time of the incident residing in contaminated areas. As of March 2025, they have supported
261 individuals with treatment and living costs.
They also publish reports on the voices of affected families and host annual symposiums where cancer patients share their experiences.
2.
Iwashiro Citizen Measurement Room Tarachine
This group will use funds for operational costs related to thyroid screening, including venue hire, personnel expenses, and outreach costs to encourage the community to participate in health screenings.
3.
Fukushima Kids & Shonan Association
They provide financial assistance for family retreats aimed at refreshing and restoring health for victims during specific months throughout the year and support lectures to raise awareness regarding the nuclear disaster and its impacts.
4.
Annaka Hidamari Marche
This organization will utilize the funds for personnel costs, compensation for screening staff, and awareness campaigns about children’s thyroid echography examinations.
5.
Monitoring Post Citizen Group
Focused on rebuilding trust within the community, this group organizes safe spaces for residents to share their distressing experiences following the nuclear accident and supports educational projects to disseminate information about solutions to local schools.
6.
ECO village SHELTER Project
Organizing healing camps, this initiative focuses on nurturing natural experiences for Fukushima-based families, helping them reconnect with nature and each other, providing a restorative environment.
These initiatives illustrate the multifaceted approach Pal System is taking to ensure comprehensive support for those affected by the Fukushima disaster. By fostering community ties and directly assisting victims in their recovery efforts, Pal System aims to continue standing by those impacted long after the initial crisis.
Moving forward, Pal System remains committed to leveraging the power of cooperative connections to aid disaster victims. The
2023 Activity Report Meeting for the “Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Disaster Victims Support Fund” emphasizes the ongoing dedication to enhancing the well-being and future prospects of affected individuals.
Should you wish to learn more about their initiatives, visit the Pal System Federation website:
here.
As we look to 2025, designated as the
International Year of Cooperatives, the importance of mutual support in communities continues to grow, fostering resilience and recovery for all.