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Thermos Donates Cookware to Niigata Children's Cafes

In an inspiring act of community support, Thermos Co., a global leader in thermal insulation technology, has donated a range of kitchen equipment, including frying pans and Shuttle Chef vacuum cooking pots, to children's cafes in Niigata Prefecture. This generous contribution was made in collaboration with the "Niigata Children's Cafes and Places Network" and aims to promote the health and well-being of local children.

The donation ceremony took place on March 19, 2026, at the Niigata Prefectural Office, where key figures from both Thermos and the recipient organization gathered to celebrate this important milestone. The event was attended by Katsuhiro Goto, Executive Director of Thermos and head of the Niigata office, and Yuka Koike, representative of the Niigata Children's Cafes and Places Network.

Children's cafes play a crucial role in providing meals and safe spaces for children in the community. However, they face operational challenges due to rising ingredient costs and changing family structures, which have led to an increasing demand for their services. Thermos aims to support these establishments by enhancing their operational efficiency through the provision of essential cooking tools. Since 2024, Thermos has already begun donating cooking utensils, and this recent contribution further solidifies their commitment to community welfare.

Words of Gratitude from the Community

During the donation ceremony, Yuka Koike expressed heartfelt thanks on behalf of the Niigata children's cafes. She acknowledged the importance of the donation, stating:
"We sincerely appreciate the frying pans and Shuttle Chef pots provided by Thermos. The children's cafes have deeply embedded themselves in the community, responding to the needs of children and families. However, the rising costs of food and operational expenses have created significant challenges. In this context, Thermos's donation serves as crucial support for the individuals managing these cafes and addressing these challenges."

Koike further commended Thermos's understanding of the needs of children's cafes, highlighting their thoughtful selection of cooking tools tailored for the unique culinary tasks performed in these settings.

Thermos's Commitment to Community and Sustainability

Katsuhiro Goto from Thermos also shared a message during the ceremony, thanking everyone who supported this initiative. He expressed his excitement for being able to assist the Niigata community specifically, where Thermos has significant operations. He spoke highly of the deep-sided frying pans designed for children's cafes, which are perfect for preparing large quantities of meals at once. He remarked on the advantages of the Shuttle Chef, which allows for energy-efficient cooking by utilizing residual heat, further contributing to cost and time savings.

The ultimate aim is not only to streamline cooking processes but also to foster communication and relationship-building between the staff and the children who benefit from these services. Goto expressed hope that these donations would lead to greater happiness and connections within the community.

Impactful Use of Donated Items

Following the donation ceremony, an engaging demonstration was held at "Earth's Children's Café and Homework Cafe Higashiku," where the newly donated items were put to use. Participants gathered around a warm meal, enjoying moments of connection with the community's children.

About the Niigata Children's Cafes and Places Network

The Niigata Children's Cafes and Places Network works to support children's cafes across the prefecture, aiming to create a nurturing environment for children to thrive in safety and joy. Their initiatives connect various organizations and local enterprises to foster a community where children can find comfort and care.

About Thermos Co.

Founded in 1904 in Germany, Thermos is the world's largest manufacturer of thermal containers. Renowned for its innovative glass vacuum flasks and high vacuum stainless steel products, Thermos remains a pioneer in its field, beloved in over 120 countries. The company is committed to providing products that enhance quality of life while also being mindful of environmental sustainability.

To explore more about Thermos and its remarkable journey, visit Thermos History.

Thermos Co. continues to expand its offerings, which include a vast range of products from insulated containers to cookware, embodying their dedication to a comfortable and environmentally friendly lifestyle.