#Japan #Shinjuku #Smappa!Group #Mojito #Shinjuku Day Service

Growing Connections: How Shinjuku Day Service Is Innovating with Mojito's Mint

In the heart of Kabukicho, the mint used in the signature mojito served at local bars has an interesting backstory; it's nurtured at a nearby nursing home through the innovative "Shinjuku Day Service Mojito" project initiated by Smappa!Group. This initiative combines personal care for individuals with a community connection, uniting the journey from farm to glass in a heartwarming narrative.

The seedlings for the mint were sourced from "Pipi-chan Farm," known for its organic farming practices in the Oume area, and were planted at the nursing facility in May. From there, this mint transforms into the famous "Shinjuku Day Service Mojito" as it makes its way back to Smappa!Group bars and restaurants as a unique cocktail offering.

Philosophy and Vision

The mission behind the Shinjuku Day Service is not just to provide care but to celebrate individuality; they emphasize the importance of connecting with each user's distinct desires. This project showcases their belief in fostering community by bridging the gap between their nursing facility and the public.

One of the ongoing challenges in day-service care is to cultivate a sense of purpose and social contribution among users. Operating solely within the facility can hinder a person’s connection to the outside world, making it hard to feel they are valuable to society.

The collaboration with Pipi-chan Farm allows users to contribute significantly to the preparation of their meals, receiving fresh produce daily. The idea of transforming their grown mint into a mojito for others was a natural evolution of this partnership, thus bringing community engagement full circle.

Project Workflow

1. Harvesting mint seedlings from Pipi-chan Farm.
2. Users at Shinjuku Day Service engage in a flexible mint cultivation program based on personal interest.
3. Freshly harvested mint is delivered to Smappa!Group venues.
4. Each establishment creates its version of the "Shinjuku Day Service Mojito."
5. Customers receive the story of the mint along with their cocktails, enriching their drinking experience.

Personalized Care in Practice

The mint cultivation program isn’t one-size-fits-all; it allows interested users to engage at their own pace. Shinjuku Day Service eschews rigid procedures in favor of nurturing communication among users, families, and care managers. This flexibility has become a hallmark of the initiative.

Users experience a rewarding sensation when they see the fruits of their labor appearing in local bars. It enhances their connection with the community and fosters a sense of purpose in their lives, while giving customers the joy of comparing mojitos from different venues.

The Therapeutic Benefits of Plant Care

Research indicates that caring for plants can have significant physical and psychological benefits. Engaging in this hands-on project can:

1. Stimulate physical and cognitive functions: Activities related to gardening involve various sensory engagements that can promote rehabilitation and daily living skills.

2. Foster a sense of purpose: Realizing that they can grow mint for popular local drinks provides users with clear motives and joy, enhancing their confidence.

3. Provide psychological stability: Interactions with plants can cultivate a calming effect, promoting mental stability and releasing anxieties related to aging or illness.

Meaning Behind the Mojito

This project symbolizes social contribution by interlinking a nursing home with the surrounding community through a single product. The process creates an ecosystem where growers, servers, and patrons each play vital roles, extending the reach of care beyond facility walls.

Moreover, the visibility of ingredients intensifies the customer experience, enhancing the value of the mojito beyond a simple cocktail. Each establishment highlights the mint's journey and the essence of human connection in their service.

Lastly, originating from the notable nightlife hub of Kabukicho, this project serves as a beacon of a new model of regional collaboration, merging senior care, agriculture, and dining culture in vibrant urban settings.

The commitment to personalized service over two decades has shaped the ethos of Smappa!Group. Embodying the virtue symbolized by mint—an embodiment of warmth and sincerity—our goal is to foster genuine relationships with customers across our venues.

Supported By Havana Club

This project is proudly sponsored by Havana Club, a renowned global brand of Cuban rum. Created in 1934, Havana Club has captivated the world with its rich flavors and is recognized globally for cocktails like mojitos and daiquiris. The fusion of Havana Club’s traditional rum with mint grown in a nursing home highlights the uniqueness of this project.

By embracing such innovative community-oriented strategies, Shinjuku Day Service invites customers and locals to appreciate the impactful story behind each mojito served in their bars and restaurants throughout Kabukicho.