#Japan #food drive #Ota #Zaspa Gunma #Palsystem Gunma

A Thriving Partnership: Zaspa Gunma Luminous and Palsystem Gunma Join Forces for a Food Drive

On June 3rd, a significant event took place at the Chiyoda Town Hall, marking a collaboration between the women’s soccer team Zaspa Gunma Luminous and Palsystem Gunma. The ceremony celebrated their joint initiative for a food drive aimed at combating food waste and providing support for individuals in need as part of their commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Uniting Sports and Community Engagement

The partnership between Palsystem Gunma, based in Takasaki, and the women's soccer team Zaspa Gunma Luminous from Ota City is a pioneering move in blending sports and community service. Since last year, these organizations have shared a common vision of achieving the SDGs locally. During the donation ceremony, representatives from both groups presented the gathered food items to the town mayor, alongside discussions about their ongoing community contributions and future activities.

The food items donated had been collected during the Chiyoda Kids Sports Festival held on May 5. Team members of Zaspa Gunma Luminous and Palsystem Gunma volunteers rallied attendees to contribute their surplus food. Special prizes, such as signed goods from the soccer players, incentivized participation in the food drive, helping to ensure its success.

Impactful Donations Through Local Food Banks

The donated items will be distributed through local food banks to those who are in dire need. The cooperative effort highlights the importance of community involvement in addressing hunger and reducing food waste.

Event Details: Celebration of Solidarity

Event Information:

• - Date: June 3, 2026
• - Time: 10:00 am - 10:30 am
• - Location: Chiyoda Town Hall, Meeting Room (1895-1 Akaiwa, Chiyoda, Gunma)
• - Donation Recipient: Chiyoda Town
• - Participants:

- Chiyoda Town: Mayor Junichi Takahashi
- Zaspa Gunma Luminous: Representative Kazuaki Sunaga and three players
- Palsystem Gunma: Toshiro Mitsuyama, Head of SDGs Promotion

During the ceremony, the positive spirit of collaboration was palpable, and both teams shared insights on their contributions to community welfare.

A Glimpse into Dual Careers: Players Making a Difference

Among the participants, Hoka Kurokawa from Zaspa Gunma Luminous stands out not just as a talented soccer player but also as a dedicated Palsystem Gunma employee at the Touma Center in Ota City. Balancing her dual roles requires admirable commitment; she manages to participate in training three times a week while also working diligently at her job. Kurokawa embodies a vibrant spirit that brings joy to her workplace, often noted for her healthy appetite and cheerful demeanor.

Palsystem Gunma supports its employees in balancing work and sports, providing flexible scheduling to prioritize their training and competitions. This approach nurtures a supportive environment where individuals can pursue their dreams without compromising their professional commitments.

Fostering a Sustainable Future Through Education

Since the 2019 fiscal year, Palsystem Gunma has been actively promoting SDGs awareness among educational institutions across the region. Initiatives such as the food drive encourage participants to take ownership and engage with pressing social issues through hands-on experiences. Special classes, such as understanding sustainability through card games, have been held in local schools to inspire the next generation to think critically about their impact on the world.

Upcoming educational events include upcycling workshops to reflect on resourcefulness, empowering children to lead a more sustainable future.

Palsystem Gunma intends to strengthen collaborations with various community organizations as they address local challenges and work towards effective solutions.

About Palsystem Gunma

Located in Takasaki, Gunma, Palsystem Gunma has a robust cooperative structure, promoting community wellbeing. With a membership of over 51,000 and a commitment to sustainable practices, it strives to create impactful changes within the region.

• - Address: 120-11 Nakadairumachi, Takasaki, Gunma
• - Chairperson: Makiko Ohira
• - Contribution Capital: 1.12 billion yen
• - Total Sales: 6.16 billion yen (as of March 2025)
• - Website: Palsystem Gunma

As the collaboration between Zaspa Gunma Luminous and Palsystem Gunma continues to evolve, the community can look forward to more initiatives that not only enhance support for those in need but also foster a spirit of togetherness and sustainability.