#Japan #food drive #Setagaya #Free the Children #Halloween Event

Celebrate Halloween with Purpose in Chitose-Karasuyama

On October 13, 2023, Free The Children Japan, a certified NPO located in Setagaya, Tokyo, is hosting an exciting event called the "Halloween Food Drive Parade in Chitose-Karasuyama". This activity is perfectly timed to coincide with World Food Day and Food Loss Reduction Month, focusing on tackling pressing food issues with cheerful social actions.

The organization is dedicated to supporting children’s social activities through its motto: "Gift (something you love) × Issue (social challenges) = Change!" This year's Halloween event encourages fun while addressing global food issues through a combined focus on a festive parade and a food drive. Children unable to attend the event are encouraged to organize similar food drives in their local communities or schools. The playful slogan for the event is "Trash? or Treat?", prompting participants to consider the implications of food waste.

The Importance of the Food Drive

A food drive involves collecting unconsumed food items from households and businesses to donate to those in need. In Japan, a staggering 4.64 million tons of edible food is wasted annually. In contrast, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has provided only 3.7 million tons of aid to food-insecure regions globally. Therefore, Japan disposes of more edible food than the total amount sent as aid worldwide. This food wastage contributes to numerous environmental issues, including climate change, making food drives crucial actions to tackle both food loss and poverty.

Free The Children Japan is committed to reinforcing this narrative by encouraging children to get involved in social philanthropy. October is dedicated to World Food Day, celebrated on the 16th, and is also recognized as Food Loss Reduction Month by various Japanese ministries, prompting a collective reflection on food-related challenges.

The event in Chitose-Karasuyama combines a lively costume parade with discussions about food waste. To participate in the parade, individuals are encouraged to bring food items that their households can no longer consume, which will be distributed to families in need through the Setagaya Social Welfare Council. What better way to promote social good than through a fun community celebration?

Event Details

• - Date: October 13, 2023 (Monday, Public Holiday)
• - Parade Time: 15:00-16:00 (Registration starts at 14:45)
• - Food Drive Time: 14:00-16:00 (No costume or registration required)
• - Location: Setagaya-ku Karasuyama Community Center Front Plaza (1-minute walk from Chitose-Karasuyama Station North Exit)

This event will feature various activities, including a costume parade, a fashion show (for those who want to participate), a storytelling session on food issues, and the food drive.

Participation Requirements

Participants are asked to bring food items that meet the following criteria:

• - Items must be unopened and undamaged.
• - The expiry date should be at least 1-2 months away (salt and sugar are exceptions).
• - No frozen or refrigerated items are allowed.
• - Please do not purchase extra food specifically for donation; if you lack food to donate, a contribution of 500 yen or more is encouraged.

Food donations will be utilized for support initiatives aimed at aiding economically challenged families and children's cafeterias through collaboration with the social welfare council and the Setagaya Child Food Pantry.

About Free The Children Japan

Founded in 1999, Free The Children Japan aims to liberate children from poverty and exploitation, providing them the opportunity to become change makers. The organization also runs international cooperation activities while supporting Japanese youth in addressing domestic and global issues. Regular initiatives include school presentations, educational materials, and engagement programs for young people.

By reviving the spirit of community during Halloween, this event aspires to bring together fun and meaningful actions that contribute to improving the global food situation. Make this Halloween special by participating in the food drive and parade, and let’s create a brighter world together!

For further details and registration, visit: Halloween Food Drive