#Japan #Minato #Minato Ward #Hanawa Town #Koshihikari

A Heartwarming Gesture: Rice from Hanawa Town to Minato Kids

In a wonderful collaboration between Minato Ward and Hanawa Town in Fukushima Prefecture, the two regions are joining forces to promote environmental conservation through their recent agreement. In 2022, they established a partnership focused on utilizing domestic timber, particularly thinning materials, to combat climate change. This noble initiative has now extended its reach to enrich the lives of children in Minato Ward.

In a heartfelt gesture of this collaboration, Hanawa Town donated 300 kg of their celebrated new rice, Koshihikari, to Minato Ward. This delicious rice was served in children's cafeterias across the ward, aiming to provide nutritious and tasty meals for local children. The impact of this donation was palpable, with children expressing their joy through smiles and delightful comments about the food.

On November 10, 2023, children in Minato Ward were treated to freshly cooked Koshihikari rice at local children’s cafeterias. As the aroma filled the air, the children's delighted voices echoed, saying, “It's fluffy and so delicious!” Their happy faces illuminated the dining areas, a testament to the positive impact that good food can have on young lives.


During this event, Minato Ward Mayor Ai Seike engaged with the children, asking for their thoughts on the meals. The joy of the children was contagious, and it was clear that this initiative was about more than just providing food; it was a way to foster community spirit and enrich the lives of the younger generation.

Strengthening Ties - Minato Ward and Hanawa Town

This collaboration between Minato Ward and Hanawa Town extends beyond merely donating rice. Both regions are committed to sustainable practices and fostering a sense of community through various initiatives. They have engaged in woodwork workshops and have implemented the “Minato Model System” to encourage the use of domestic wood in local construction projects. These efforts not only help to utilize local resources but also contribute to tackling climate change effectively.

During woodwork workshops, individuals of all ages come together, learning the importance of using domestic timber and its environmental benefits. These activities serve to educate the public on the significance of sustainability while strengthening ties between the two communities.

For more details about Minato Ward's initiatives and the collaboration with Hanawa Town, please visit the ward's official website.

This donation of Koshihikari rice is just one example of how public-private partnerships and inter-city cooperation can bring substantial benefits to the community, particularly for children. Such initiatives signify hope for a future where communities thrive together, placing emphasis on cooperation and sustainability for the next generations.

Mayor Seike and Hanawa Town's Agricultural Promotion Division Director Kazunori Kaneda have expressed their gratitude for this partnership. Their collaborative efforts will continue to inspire meaningful projects that not only uplift children but also promote sustainable living practices.

Through this joint initiative, we not only witness a commitment to social welfare but also witness the power of collaboration and the importance of nurturing future generations in a sustainable manner. Let's hope to see more such beautiful gestures that unite regions and uplift our children’s spirits further.

Together, Hanawa Town and Minato Ward serve as a great example of how community collaboration can lead to positive change, ensuring that children have not just food but also the support and love they need to flourish.