#Japan #Tokyo #child nutrition #food aid #MinaPay

Initiatives for Supporting Children’s Meals by Restaurants

In today's society, the alarming rates of children facing nutritional difficulties due to economic challenges call for urgent action. MinaPay Inc., based in Chuo-ku, Tokyo, conducted a survey targeting restaurant owners and managers, shedding light on their attitudes towards supporting children's meal initiatives. According to the founder of the loyalty app 'MinaPay', Mr. Isogai, protecting the future of children is a mission shared by all adults in society. He passionately declares, "I will never abandon our children. I am determined to ensure their welfare."

This survey not only highlights the efforts to aid children facing hardships but also the strong commitment among restaurateurs to be part of the solution. Conducted through PRIZMA from September 3 to September 5, 2025, the survey gathered the opinions of 1,009 individuals actively engaged in small and medium-sized restaurant businesses.

High Awareness of Child Food Insecurity

The survey reveals an overwhelming consensus among respondents regarding the challenges faced by children in single-parent households. Approximately 88% of them expressed that these challenges are a serious concern. The responses highlight various reasons for this perception:

• - Nutritional Needs: Many articulated that insufficient nutrition adversely affects proper growth and development, emphasizing the urgency for action.
• - Social Responsibility: Restaurant owners acknowledged that neglecting the food needs of children is a critical issue beyond just economic factors.
• - Empathy and Personal Experiences: A number of owners expressed their past struggles, recognizing that some children might even contemplate theft out of hunger.

These sentiments underline a deep-rooted concern for the well-being of children and signify a call to action from society’s food service sector.

Positive Reception to Child Meal Support Initiatives

When asked about their views on restaurants that engage in providing meal support for children, nearly 87% applauded these initiatives. A little over 41% consider them to be "very positive," while approximately 45% regarded them as "somewhat positive." This data indicates broad approval from the community for such initiatives and suggests a strong foundation for expanding these efforts.

Commitment Among Restaurant Owners

Interestingly, over 81% of the owners surveyed expressed a desire to engage in meal support for children either actively or if circumstances allow. Specifically:

• - Already Engaged: 13% are currently providing support.
• - Willingness to Act: 30% are eager to start or expand their efforts.
• - Conditional Interest: 38% indicated they would participate if resources permitted.
• - Reluctance: 18% showed no interest.

These figures reveal a commendable willingness among owners to help local children, showcasing their commitment to community welfare.

Drivers Behind Support or Reluctance

Responses varied regarding motivations to support or reasons for hesitation:

Willing Support

• - Financial Capability: Some owners feel they can contribute positively without straining their finances.
• - Food Waste Concerns: There’s a shared belief that helping children uses resources better rather than creating waste.
• - Desire to Support Development: Many expressed a heartfelt wish to contribute to the healthy growth of children.

Hesitant Responses

On the other hand, those reluctant to participate pointed to:System constraints and complexity of running a business, including financial struggles, understaffing, and lack of clarity on effective action.