#Japan #Shinjuku #Pal System #Support Fund #Fukushima Disaster

Continued Support for Fukushima Disaster Victims in 2026

In an effort to extend ongoing assistance to victims of the Fukushima nuclear disaster, the Pal System Union based in Shinjuku, Tokyo, has announced the distribution of a generous total of ¥8,113,400 ($73,500) to 27 organizations for the 2026 fiscal year. This allocation was made possible through donations collected from its users as part of the "Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Disaster Victims Support Fund."

Allocation of the Support Fund

The assistance will benefit a variety of initiatives including thyroid examinations, community exchange programs for evacuees, and wellness camps tailored for those affected by the catastrophic event. Since 2011, following the unprecedented earthquake and tsunami that triggered the nuclear disaster, Pal System has been actively engaged in support activities for impacted individuals and communities.

From April 1 to December 31, 2025, the fund raised a total of ¥2,455,911 ($22,500). In addition, ¥828,700 ($7,500) was contributed from the Pal System Mutual Aid Association, bringing the total support amounts to be utilized for the disaster victims. The decision to distribute a total of ¥8,113,400 was approved by the Operations Management Committee of the Support Fund after thorough evaluation and consideration.

To offset any shortfall, the difference will be supplemented with leftover funds from the previous year’s allocations, ensuring continuous and effective support is rendered.

How the Funds Will Be Used

The recipient organizations will utilize the funds for multiple purposes, including promoting recovery activities for victims and evacuees, conducting essential thyroid health screenings, and hosting study tours aimed at fostering connections through visits to affected areas. The spectrum of activities funded will help improve the lives of those still feeling the aftermath of the disaster.

Spotlight on Beneficiary Organizations

Among the organizations receiving funding, one notable example is the "Certified NPO Iwaki Radiation Citizen Measurement Room Tarachine." Established by residents deeply affected by the disaster, this organization works tirelessly to provide essential data and protective advice regarding radiation exposure while also fulfilling the evolving needs of the community by offering medical services, thyroid examinations, and psychological support.

The complete list of supported organizations includes:

• - Certified NPO Iwaki Radiation Citizen Measurement Room Tarachine
• - NPO Nuclear Information Resource Center
• - NPO 3.11 Thyroid Cancer Children’s Fund
• - NPO Shinjuku Yoyogi Citizen Measurement Center
• - Hachimitsu Association
• - Fukushima Children Support Project
• - NPO Fukushima Child Welfare Project
• - Moyai Exhibition Executive Committee
• - Goen no Chikara
• - Fukushima’s Children and Together - Nishishou Association
• - Support association for families in Fukushima - Hiratsuka
• - Fukushima Children Corasse Kanagawa
• - Bridge to Tomorrow
• - Support Project for Reconstruction after East Japan Earthquake in Matsudo
• - Carrot Cafe for Support of Evacuees post East Japan Earthquake
• - Saitama Tomoni Ayumu Association
• - NPO Fusion Society Power Creation Partners
• - Jaa mai ikka net
• - Genki Tsuku Ba Kai (Namie Town Evacuee Association)
• - Namie Network
• - Wellness Camp Gun-Nai Executive Committee
• - NPO An'naka Hidamari Marche
• - Earthquake Stress Research Group
• - Citizens' association demanding continued placement of monitoring posts - Miharu
• - NPO Minna no Data Site
• - Fukushima Children Support Fund Picnic Executive Committee
• - General Incorporated Association ECO Village SHELTER Project

Looking Ahead

Pal System remains committed to utilizing the power of the cooperative's network and its willingness to support disaster victims alongside its users. This ongoing commitment shines brightly, particularly as we approach the 15th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake.

Future Focus

In anticipation of the upcoming anniversary on March 11, the organization will continue advocating for contributions to the disaster support fund, reminding the community of the continued need for assistance as the affected communities navigate their recovery journeys.

As Pal System moves forward, it emphasizes the importance of collaboration, community solidarity, and compassion toward all those still impacted by the events of 2011, ensuring that the voices of the victims are heard and that they are not forgotten.