#Japan #Tokyo #Foster Care #Satokko #Key Asset

The 'Satokko Kitchen' Event: A Culinary Journey into Foster Care

On July 5, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, a unique event called 'Satokko Kitchen' will take place at Cafe Iroiro Biyori in Kokubunji City, Tokyo. This initiative is led by youth who have experienced life in foster care, also known as 'Satokko,' aiming to raise awareness about the foster care system in Tokyo. The event is organized by the Non-Profit Organization Key Asset, which operates out of Osaka under the leadership of Director Mamoru Watanabe.

Key Asset is dedicated to supporting children who cannot live with their families for various reasons, helping them find nurturing foster families that meet their unique needs. Through their activities, they aim to increase the number of foster families and provide ongoing support to young adults who have transitioned out of foster care.

The primary objective of the 'Satokko Kitchen' is to create a space where young people with foster care experience can engage with participants through cooking. This interactive and hands-on approach not only fosters natural conversations but also allows attendees to learn about the realities of life in foster care from the youth's perspective. By participating in this event, attendees will deepen their understanding of the foster care system and explore how they can contribute to its improvement.

Why Now? Understanding the Context

In Tokyo, there are approximately 4,000 children who cannot live with their families due to various reasons. Many of these children reside in child welfare facilities; however, the option of being raised in a family setting through foster care often remains overlooked. In Japan, misconceptions and a lack of information about foster care have resulted in an insufficient number of registered foster families. Consequently, many children miss out on the opportunity to grow up in a family-like environment. The 'Satokko' youth, driven by a desire to lower barriers to participation in events that promote the foster care system, and a need to amplify the voices of those directly affected, are taking a significant step to share their experiences with society.

Event Highlights

• - Developed and Organized by 'Satokko': By being at the forefront, the young people with foster care experience will share personal stories about life in foster families and interactions with their foster parents.
• - Culinary Connection: Participants will join together to create fresh spring rolls, making the event a flavorful opportunity to envision life in foster care through food.
• - Authentic Voices: Attendees will gain insights from the personal experiences of former foster children, which are often overlooked in mainstream narratives.

Event Details

Event Name: Satokko Kitchen
Date: July 5, 2025 (Saturday)
Time: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Venue: Cafe Iroiro Biyori, 1-14-7 Minamicho, Kokubunji City, Tokyo (5-minute walk from Kokubunji Station)
Target Audience: Men and women aged 20 to 60 living in Tokyo, individuals interested in social contribution, education professionals, local government staff, etc.
Program Includes:

• - Self-introductions by youth with foster care experience and explanation of the Tokyo foster care system
• - Hands-on making of fresh spring rolls with all participants
• - Talk sessions with former foster youth and foster parents

How to Register: Interested individuals can register by calling Key Asset's Tokyo Kokubunji office at 042-314-9031 or through the Google Form link: Register Here.

About Non-Profit Organization Key Asset

Key Asset is dedicated to enhancing the lives of children who are unable to live with their families by fostering meaningful connections and promoting a supportive environment through the foster care system.

Join us for the 'Satokko Kitchen' event to engage, learn, and help create a better future for children in foster care!