The Launch of 'Kodomo Furusato-bin': A New Initiative to Support Children in Japan

In a bid to create a society where all children can challenge the future equally, Nessu Inc., a startup based in Setagaya, Tokyo, has rolled out the "Kodomo Furusato-bin" initiative. This program utilizes the Furusato tax system to deliver regional products and experiences, referred to as “support items,” to children’s cafeterias, single-parent households, and children suffering from severe illnesses. As of the end of May 2026, the first phase of support items has been launched, delivering approximately 4.8 tons of Asahikawa City’s branded rice, 'Nanatsuboshi,' to various locations nationwide.

The ongoing efforts to support children in need began with the initiative on May 31, 2026, aiming to provide a myriad of opportunities and hope regardless of their circumstances. The initial charitable deliveries have already set the tone for the fiscal year, supported by donations gathered through the Furusato tax program until December 31, 2025. Looking forward, the project plans to distribute around 30 tons of Asahikawa rice in total throughout the 2026 fiscal year.

Details of the 2026 First Phase Support Items

The first phase of support items has been distributed throughout various regions, reaching several organizations that assist children in need, including children’s cafeterias and organizations supporting single-parent households. The specifics are as follows:

- Support Item: Asahikawa City’s 'Nanatsuboshi' Rice
- Amount Distributed: Approximately 4.8 tons
- Distribution Areas: Asahikawa City in Hokkaido, Tokyo (Chiyoda, Minato, Bunkyo, Meguro, Edogawa, Nakano, Suginami), Yamagata, Fukushima, Chiba, Yamanashi, Toyama, Gunma, Osaka, Nara, Mie, Shiga, Yamaguchi, Tokushima, Kochi, Kumamoto, Saga, and Okinawa.

Nessu representatives personally visited organizations in Chiyoda and Minato, assisting in the distribution efforts to ensure that the items were delivered effectively and empathetically.

Participation in Local Food Pantries

On June 17, 2026, Nessu joined the food pantry by the NPO Minato Kodomo Shokudo located in Minato City, Tokyo. During this event, the rice support items were combined with food sets and distributed directly to approximately 130 households.

Following this, on June 22, 2026, another meal service was conducted at the children's cafeteria "Mirion House" in Chiyoda City, where about 50 servings of curry rice were prepared, delighting participating children with comments like, “The rice is delicious!” and “Thank you!” This initiative allowed children to experience the charm of Asahikawa, promoting a connection to the region's fantastic produce.

Voices from the Support Organizations

Feedback from various receiving organizations highlights the positive impact of the support items. For instance, a representative from the SUKUSUKU Cafe in Kōnan City, Shiga Prefecture, expressed gratitude for the ability to provide children with hearty meals, stating, "It brings joy to see the children's faces brighten while enjoying rice balls.” Similarly, insights from the NPO Educational Research Institute in Kurobe City, Toyama Prefecture, indicated the popularity of rice among children, emphasizing that it contributes significantly to their dietary experience.

Many organizations have reported smiles and cheers from children receiving the Asahikawa rice, showing the profound impact food support has on nutrition, security, and community cohesion.

Looking Ahead

Nessu is committed to continuing the 'Kodomo Furusato-bin' initiative, ensuring that the heartfelt wishes of donors and the essence of regional charm are carried to children in need. Plans to widen the network of participating regions and organizations are in place for the 2026 fiscal year to enhance this support even further.

This program allows donors to receive traditional rewards typical of the Furusato tax, while also participating in the mission of uplifting children's lives. Donors can select which region or organization the support items will go to, reflecting their commitment to creating a meaningful impact based on their values.

For more information on this initiative, visit: Kodomo Furusato Official Site

Overview of Nessu Inc.

Company Name: Nessu Inc.
CEO: Yuki Kido
Founded: June 10, 2022
Location: 4-44-4 Daisawa, Setagaya, Tokyo 155-0032
Website: Nessu Official Site

Nessu is focused on establishing a society where every child has the opportunity to pursue the future equitably and with hope. The company’s other initiatives include the "Food and Parenting Support Project" that connects unused food to families in need and the "Circular Design Lab" that reincorporates waste resources into material usage.