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Supporting Children Through Innovative Campaigns

The recent trend in Japan of discontinuing the tradition of sending New Year’s cards, known as "nengajo", has led to significant declines in donations for children’s support through specific non-profit organizations. In light of this, Child Fund Japan (CFJ) has initiated a new campaign titled "Turning Household Goods into Global Good! Campaign 2025" aimed at encouraging the donation of not only unused and forgotten New Year’s cards but also various used goods including books, DVDs, and video games.

The Urgent Call for Donations

Since its establishment in 1975, Child Fund Japan has been at the forefront of providing support to children in developing countries. This year marks the organization's 50th anniversary, a milestone celebrated with ongoing campaigns for receiving donations of postcards and unused stamps. However, with the declining popularity of the nengajo, the number of postcards sent has plummeted from approximately 4.45 billion in 2004 to just 1.07 billion for 2025, a reduction of nearly 75%.

This decline has directly impacted CFJ’s ability to collect postcard and stamp donations, which have decreased by 86% between 2020 and 2025, resulting in a staggering loss of approximately 7.9 million yen in funding. This significant reduction equates to providing school supplies to 7,900 children in impoverished areas of Nepal. CFJ utilizes these funds for operational procedures related to donations, which help conserve costs and redirect funds directly into support initiatives for children in need.

The Threefold Challenge Facing the Organization

Child Fund Japan is currently grappling with a trifecta of difficulties: the substantial drop in postcard donations, rising postal service costs, and increased fees for exchanging postcards and stamps. Although the organization has been adapting by shifting toward digital communications and utilizing more affordable shipping services, the ongoing challenges pose a serious threat to its operational stability.

Broadening the Scope of Donations

In response to this urgent situation, CFJ has launched the "Turning Household Goods into Global Good! Campaign 2025". This campaign not only emphasizes the importance of postcard and stamp donations but also accepts the contribution of other household items such as books, DVDs, and video games. The end-of-year season presents a perfect opportunity for citizens to clear out their unused materials and support a good cause simultaneously.

Donating items can often feel daunting as many people face emotional resistance to discarding belongings. However, contributing goods alleviates that guilt, allowing for an environmentally sustainable approach that benefits the environment and supports social causes such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

How to Participate in the Campaign

1. Donations of Postcards and Stamps

Accepted Items:

• - Unused and miswritten New Year’s cards
• - Unused postage stamps

Submission Method:

Items can be mailed in an envelope to the following address:

Child Fund Japan
Postcard Donation Department
2-17-5 Zenpukuji, Suginami-ku, Tokyo, 167-0041, Japan

• - Even small quantities or older items are appreciated.
• - Please include your name, address, and email for acknowledgment. Receipt confirmation will be sent via email instead of traditional mail.
• - Personal information will be managed securely.

How Are Donations Used?

Postcards and stamps collected are utilized in postal communications efficiently, allowing the saved expenses to be redirected towards supporting children.

2. Donations of Books, DVDs, and Games

Accepted Items:

• - Used books, DVDs, Blu-rays, CD albums, gaming consoles, and games.

Submission Method:

To donate, use the “Charibon” recycling service website. It is free shipping, and items will be collected from your home.

• - For the donation month campaign (December 1 - December 31), the donation amount will increase by 500 yen for those who submit during this period.
• - Another option is available, where a coupon code can be used from January through February for an additional donation amount.
• - Please check Charibon's website for items that may not qualify for donation.

How Are Donations Used?

Charibon’s equivalent purchase amount from donated items goes directly to Child Fund Japan.

Campaign Timeline

The campaign runs from December 1, 2025, to February 28, 2026. However, donations are welcome outside this period as well.

About Child Fund Japan

Child Fund Japan is an international cooperation NGO dedicated to promoting healthy growth amongst children living in poverty, mainly across Asia. Through sponsorship programs, mentoring, and ongoing support efforts, CFJ has positively impacted millions of children and families. They are also registered members of 11 Child Fund countries, working together to deliver aid to over 23 million people in various regions globally, including emergency responses in Ukraine, Palestine, and Gaza.

Join this movement to make a difference in the lives of children in need while promoting sustainable practices in your community!