about IPPO

The popular image of Japan is one of wealth, growth, technology, and social togetherness.

What you might not be aware of is the many hidden problems Japan has-- e.g. high suicide rate, homelessness, child poverty, etc.

The child poverty rate is one example of Japan's hidden social problems.

Out of the top 35 economic countries, Japan ranked 27th in relation to child poverty.

One out of 6 kids is living under financial hardship with 30,000 of the most severe cases living in Child Welfare Centers.

Many kids without parental support grow up in Child Welfare Centers, and have to leave the facilities at the age of 18.

Adoption in Japan is not common like in western countries, and government support is very limited.

When kids leave the facilities, there is no support network to help them to be independent members of society.

As a result, many of these kids end up in organized crime, prostitution, or homelessness.

This is where IPPO (First-step ShareHouse) comes in.

IPPO provides housing, food, and a support network for the kids for 1 year after they leave the welfare center.

The support network will help them to re-integrate into society and look after themselves.

IPPO receives no funding from the government and depends entirely on donations from private companies and individuals.

If you would like to be a part of this support network, please email IPPO at .

Please write "Donation" in the subject heading.