Food Assistance for Economically Needy Households in Katsushika Ward, Japan

April 18, 2022

PARCIC, a JPF member NGO, distributed foodstuffs to needy households affected by the spread of COVID-19 infection. In March, PARSIC distributed food and other daily necessities to 256 households.

Support for Disability Welfare Offices

March 16, 2022

The Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR), a JPF member NGO, is continuing its support for the infection control at welfare offices for the disabled throughout Japan. Since the number of infected people has increased and health centers are under pressure, and it is not always easy to get a test for suspected infection, they distributed PCR and antigen test kits to dozens of offices.

Notice of Public Symposium

21st February 2022

In the January report, we mentioned the support for foreign residents facing difficulties due to COVID-19 (JPF Dormant Deposit Utilization Project). On February 28, the JPF and the Japan International Exchange Center (JCIE) will co-host an open symposium entitled "Listening to the Voices of the Field of Support during the COVID-19 Crisis: Support for Foreign Residents Tested in the Crisis." Please join us!

Emergency Assistance to Japan in Response to COVID-19

6th January 2022

As the number of people infected with COVID-19 is increasing again in Japan as well due to the spread of the mutant Omicron strain, JPF is continuing its support activities for measures against COVID-19. Currently, JPF member NGOs are providing food assistance to needy households and support for infection prevention at disability welfare offices.

In addition, in the Dormant Deposit Utilization Project, we also provides subsidies for assistance to foreign residents who are experiencing difficulties due to COVID-19.

Click here for the JPF Dormant Deposit Utilization Project (Japanese Only)

Completion of relief activities in Nepal

9th December 2021

• ©ADRA

ADRA, a JPF member NGO, has completed its support for the distribution of medical supplies and equipment in southwest Nepal. The organization not only provided supplies, but also conducted activities that contributed to the promotion of awareness on infection prevention.

PWJ's support for prevention of COVID-19 infection in Nepal

17th November 2021

• ©PWJ

PWJ has been providing support to the isolation center to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus in Nepal. We report on our support activities, including expansion of medical facilities and provision of medical supplies.

Food assistance to needy households and distribution of supplies to welfare offices

15th November 2021

• Food for distribution in a community café

JPF member NGOs continue to conduct support activities in Japan and overseas. In Japan, AAR has been distributing supplies to welfare facilities for the disabled. In addition, PARCIC continues to provide food assistance to economically disadvantaged households at a community café in Katsushika-ku, Tokyo.

Nepalese Health Care Workers Face Reality of the Pandemic: "Many Times I Wanted to Run Away

October 2021

• ©ADRA

ADRA, a JPF member NGO, is supporting the distribution of medical equipment and supplies to strengthen the capacity to respond to the new coronavirus in southwestern Nepal.
ADRA is providing medical equipment and PPE to hospitals and isolation facilities, thermometers and hand sanitizers to home-based patients, and awareness-raising activities through women community health volunteers and radio broadcasts. The second wave peaked in May 2021 and spread rapidly in Nepal. There is still no end for infection in sight for Nepal yet.
For more information, click here.

JPF Member NGOs Provide Support in Japan and Abroad

September 2021

• ©ADRA
• ©ADRA

JPF is providing support to those affected by the new coronavirus both in Japan and overseas. In India and Nepal, where the infection spread due to the delta strain and other factors, we are providing equipment to medical facilities, food aid, and support for raising awareness of the prevention of coronavirus infection. In Japan, we are providing food aid to economically affected households and distributing supplies to welfare facilities for the disabled to prevent infection.

Global Death Toll from the Corona Vitus to Exceed 4 million

25th July 2021 23:59

The global death toll from the coronavirus infections exceeded 4 million earlier this month.

More than a third of the deaths are in the top few countries, including the United States, Brazil, and India. In some countries and regions, the highly infectious delta strain is also a factor in the spread. In developing countries, the actual number of deaths may be much higher than officially reported due to the difficulty in accurately tracking the status of infection.
JPF is also providing assistance to India and Nepal, where COVID-19 including the delta strain is spreading.

CNN News Global death toll from new corona virus tops 4 million
https://www.cnn.co.jp/world/35173599.html

Helping Households Affected by COVID-19 in Nepal

17th July 2021

• ©JISP

Japan International Support Program (JISP), a JPF member NGO, is currently providing emergency health support to vulnerable households in Saptari District, Nepal.

Saptari District is one of the most impoverished and poorly sanitized areas in Nepal. JISP is supporting households with pregnant or lactating women in order to support women who are particularly vulnerable due to cultural and social reasons. They will also distribute food, and water filters to produce safe water for hygiene and cooking.

COVID-19 Prevention Assistance for Syrian Refugees in Turkey

8th July 2021 23:59

• ©SPJ

SDGs Promise Japan (SPJ), a JPF member NGO, is currently providing support to Syrian refugees and host communities in Turkey.

SPJ is distributing hygiene products and raising awareness on infection prevention to Syrian refugees and local residents affected by the coronavirus.

The photo shows the beneficiaries receiving the hygiene products. SPJ has adopted a system that allows each beneficiary to receive what he or she needs according to his or her own needs, and to freely combine the supplies to be distributed.

ADRA to assist Nepal in combating COVID-19

July 5, 2021 23:59

In Nepal, the infection spread rapidly, and around May it was said to have the highest positive rate in the world. Delta strains are highly contagious and can cause severe illness even in young people but Nepal's fragile health system, even before the corona crisis, is under great strain and in need of support.

ADRA Japan, a JPF member NGO, has started its support in Nepal. They will distribute medical supplies and equipment to hospitals. In addition, since few households in rural areas are equipped with thermometers, they will also lend home-care kits such as pulse oximeters for measuring arterial blood oxygen saturation, thermometers, and disinfectants to patients who are isolated at home. In addition, they will conduct awareness raising activities on coronavirus prevention in the community.

Food Assistance for Families Affected by Corona Pandemic

3rd July 2021 23:59

• Food pantry ©PARCIC

PARCIC, JPF member NGO, is providing meal support to children and the elderly in Katsushika ward, Tokyo.

PARCIC also distributes sanitary products along with the food. They are supporting those who were economically affected by the pandemic. At the distribution site number of people allowed in the room is limited to prevent infection. They have also prepared some food items that can be freely selected by the users, in addition to the pre-packed food items in bags. This is a great way to meet the needs of each individual, and at the same time, it provides an opportunity for a little conversation.

AAR Helps in Myanmar Refugee Camps

25th June 2021 23:59

• 

The Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR), a JPF member NGO, conducted a project to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus through improved water sanitation in Myanmar's refugee camps and host communities, which was completed at the end of May.

AAR has conducted hygiene awareness activities and distributed hygiene products to more than 3,700 households in total. Disinfection of toilets, bathing rooms, wells, and drains was also conducted daily in the camp and host communities.

SN launches support in Nepal as Delta strains spread

14th June 2021 23:59

JPF member NGO, Shapla Neer (SN), is launching a JPF program to provide support in areas of Nepal with high numbers of COVID-19 cases and weak healthcare systems.

In the areas SN is supporting, many people are unemployed due to travel restrictions, including people in precarious employment such as migrant workers from India and big cities in Nepal. In addition, although there are isolation facilities for COVID-19 patients, the facilities are not properly operated due to the lack of equipment and personal protective equipment for the people staying there. As a result, there are many people who have to be quarantined at home even though there is a great possibility of infecting others.
SN will provide supplies that are lacking at the facilities and distribute food to those in need.

SVA conducts assistance in Nepal where Delta COVID-19 variant surges

8th June 2021 23:59

Shanti Volunteer Association (SVA), a JPF member NGO, has begun providing assistance in Nepal.
Only two hospitals in Nuwakot District are capable of accepting patients with severe COVID-19 symptoms, but they lack materials necessary for intensive care, such as ventilators, oxygen supply systems, and medical monitors. This makes it difficult for critically ill patients to receive proper treatment. SVA is providing support by delivering medical supplies and equipment to the hospitals.

JPF member NGOs provide emergency health assistance in Nepal where Delta COVID variant surges

6th June 2021 23:59

Coronavirus, especially the Delta variant, is rapidly spreading in India and Nepal. JPF has launched a new emergency support program in order to support these areas.
Japan International Support Program (JISP), a JPF member NGO, is planning to start its support in Saptari District, one of the most poverty-stricken areas in Nepal. JISP will distribute food and hygiene items to families with pregnant women and lactating mothers who have been economically affected by the pandemic.

JPF Member NGOs Assist in Nepal as Delta Strain rapidly spreads

4th June 2021 23:59

In addition to its ongoing Coronavirus (COVID-19) Emergency Response, which has been carried out since February 2020, JPF has begun providing support in India and Nepal, where infection is spreading mostly due to delta variant.

Shanti Volunteer Association (SVA), a JPF member NGO, has started to provide medical supplies and equipment in Nepal. SVA has started providing medical equipment and supplies to hospitals that accept critically ill patients, including ventilators, oxygen cylinders, intensive care unit (ICU) beds, personal protective equipment, and other items that are in short supply, so that patients can receive appropriate treatment.

AAR to assist in Uganda to prevent the spread of new corona virus

30th May 2021 10:00

• Infection prevention awareness campaign ©AAR

Vaccines are beginning to arrive in Uganda through COVAX, a global collaborative purchasing and distribution plan for new virus vaccines led by the World Health Organization (WHO), the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunizations (GAVI), and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI). However, the number of positive cases has increased rapidly compared to the end of April.

The Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR), a JPF member NGO, is currently providing support for coronavirus infection control in the refugee settlements of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in Uganda.
AAR is distributing leaflets on infection prevention and conducting awareness raising campaign by hygiene awareness workers selected from among the residents.

Pandemic increases "period poverty", JPF member NGO’s assistance

24th May 2021 23:59

Food distributed, sweets were also given out before Children's Day ©PARCIC

PARCIC, a JPF member NGO, is currently providing support in Katsushika Ward, Tokyo.

Due to the effects of the new coronavirus, many people, especially those with unstable employment, are facing unemployment. And feeling anxiety and stress because of it. PARCIC is providing food assistance to children and the elderly to alleviate their financial burden.

It is also said that "period poverty" has increased dramatically due to the coronavirus pandemic. Due to economic hardship, more and more people are unable to buy sanitary products and use socks or toilet paper instead, or endure other things such as food in order to get sanitary products. PARCIC has been distributing sanitary products in addition to food.

NHK World Japan
Campaigner takes on “period poverty” in Japan
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/backstories/1581/

Global Health Summit: Countries offer support for corona response

22nd May 2021 23:59

On May 21, the Global Health Summit was held in an online format to promote multilateral cooperation in the wake of the new coronavirus pandemic.

At the summit, the Rome Declaration was adopted, which includes the fair distribution of corona vaccines. The EU and other countries, as well as pharmaceutical companies such as Pfizer and Moderna, have offered to support the supply of vaccines to developing countries that are unable to secure sufficient quantities.

The Japanese government is planning to hold the virtual Gavi COVAX Advance Market Commitment (AMC) Summit jointly with international organizations on the 2nd of June, and Prime Minister Suga called on the heads of state and government to cooperate in the summit.

In order to prevent further spread of the virus and decrease the impact on existing crises in areas already in humanitarian crisis, JPF has been providing assistance in places such as  refugee camp in Bangladesh for displaced people who have fled Myanmar, refugee settlements in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in Uganda and so on.

Global Health Summit Rome Declaration
https://global-health-summit.europa.eu/index_en

SPJ to assist in Turkey in combatting corona

20th May 2021 23:59

SDGs Promise Japan (SPJ), a JPF member NGO, is supporting Syrian refugees in Turkey.
They are procuring supplies for the distribution of hygiene products.

In April, SPJ conducted a needs survey of vulnerable Syrian families who are the beneficiaries. More than 90% of the households surveyed reported that they lacked some type of hygiene products necessary to combat the coronavirus. The survey asked if they were short of bleach, paper towels, toilet paper, etc. Most of the households answered that they did not have any or only had enough for a week or less, indicating that many households were short of these items.

AAR's Project to Prevent the Spread of Corona Infections

16th May 2021 18:00

The Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR), a JPF member NGO, is assisting in a camp in Bangladesh for displaced persons who have fled Myanmar as part of a JPF program. They are conducting a project to prevent the spread of coronavirus through improved water sanitation in the camp and host community.

Throughout the month of April, AAR has been disinfecting toilets, bathing rooms, wells, and drains in the camps and host communities on a daily basis in an effort to reduce infection. Also, last month, AAR conducted a corona prevention awareness campaign for over 7,000 people, distributing leaflets and other materials. AAR is planning to increase the number of hygiene awareness volunteers to reach out to more households.

Click here to watch a short video, "Growing up in the world's largest refugee camp" (BBC News)
https://bit.ly/3bw7qqd

PARCIC's Food Pantry Activity ~Coronavirus (COVID-19) Emergency Response~

12th May 2021 23:59

• ©PARCIC

PARCIC, JPF member NGO, is providing food support to children and elderly people in Katsushika-city, Tokyo.

PARCIC has been conducting more frequent food pantries since April. Food items such as rice, bananas and instant foods are being distributed, and at the end of April, sweets were also distributed for Children's Day (a Japanese festival day for children).
In addition, in response to the current situation where many women are economically affected by coronavirus and find it difficult to purchase sanitary products, PARCIC has also started distributing sanitary products.

Turkey imposes first full lockdown as corona spreads

8th May 2021 23:59

The new coronavirus is spreading rapidly in Turkey, with the number of new cases exceeding 60,000 per day in late April. In response to this situation, the Turkish government has initiated the first long-term full lockdown. Moving all schooling online, and restaurants are now only open for delivery.

SDGs Promise Japan (SPJ), a JPF member NGO, is currently providing support in Turkey.
People from Syria who are living as refugees have been socially vulnerable even before the pandemic started, and the pandemic has made them more financially vulnerable than ever before. Since it is difficult to purchase supplies for infection control, SPJ is distributing hygiene products to Syrian refugees affected by the corona crisis, as well as to residents of host communities who are in a vulnerable position.

Global food crisis, spread of coronavirus as one of the reason

6th May 2021 23:59

Last year, about 150 million people in the world were acutely food insecure, an increase of 20 million from the previous year, according to the United Nations and other organizations. One of the factors cited was the economic downturn caused by the spread of the new coronavirus, and there are fears that the situation could worsen further.

JPF's emergency support for the fight against the new coronavirus includes infection prevention support and food assistance to help those in more vulnerable positions, both in Japan and overseas.

Global Report on Food Crises 2021
https://reliefweb.int/report/world/global-report-food-crises-2021

Support for Syrian refugees in Turkey ~Coronavirus (COVID-19) Emergency Response~

2nd May 2021 23:59

SDGs Promise Japan (SPJ), a JPF member NGO, is conducting a project to distribute hygiene products to Syrian refugees and host communities affected by the pandemic in Turkey.

Although many Syrian people have taken refuge in Turkey, they have been placed in a vulnerable position even before the pandemic, where their rights as workers were often not protected. As a result, the economic downturn caused by Corona has had a significant impact on the lives of the refugees, who have lost their jobs and had their salaries cut.

SPJ provided support in Istanbul Province, which has a large number of Syrian refugees in Turkey. In the city of Sultanbeyli, where there are many people with low income, SPJ is distributing hygiene products and conducting hygiene awareness activities to help prevent the further spread of the coronavirus.

AAR’s infection prevention activities for new coronavirus in DRC refugee settlements

28th April 2021 23:59

• Infection prevention awareness session ©AAR

In Uganda, as of April 28, the number of infected cases has reached 41,715, an increase of more than 900 cases since the end of last month.
The Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR), a JPF member NGO, is providing support to refugee settlements in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in Uganda to combat the spread of the new coronavirus.
AAR is distributing supplies such as soap, masks, water tanks for hand washing, and alcohol disinfectant, as well as doing infection prevention sessions, since the residents of the refugee settlements do not have sufficient access to hygiene products to prevent infection.

WHO reports most coronavirus cases in one day - JPF Coronavirus (COVID-19) Emergency Response (Donations Now Being Accepted)

26th April 2021 23:59

The World Health Organization (WHO) has revealed that the number of new coronavirus cases worldwide in a single day exceeded 880,000 in preliminary figures on April 22, the highest number to date. Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus once again called for thorough countermeasures against infection, including physical distancing.

Vaccines for coronaviruses are becoming widely available in some developed countries, but in developing countries, vaccines are difficult to obtain.

JPF has been providing assistance to internally displaced persons camps in South Sudan, refugee camps for people who have fled Myanmar in Bangladesh, refugee settlements in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in Uganda, Syrian refugees in Turkey in order to prevent further worsening of the humanitarian crisis in the region. We are also providing assistance to people in need of special care in Japan.

NHK News (Japanese):
https://bit.ly/3xrbO3k

SPJ Supports Syrian Refugees to Prevent Coronavirus Infection

22nd April 2021 23:59

SDGs Promise Japan (SPJ), a JPF member NGO, is currently providing support in Turkey where the new coronavirus is spreading. Turkey is the world's largest host country for refugees and has also accepted many Syrian refugees.

However, due to the worsening economy caused by the pandemic, Syrian refugees and local people who are in financially vulnerable situation are finding it difficult to purchase supplies for infection control. SPJ is providing hygiene products to Syrian refugees and vulnerable locals to prevent infection.

PARCIC Supports Families Economically Affected by Corona

20th April 2021 23:59

• Thank you message and flowers from users of the food distribution ©PARCIC

PARCIC, a JPF member NGO, is providing food support to children and the elderly in Katsushika city, Tokyo.

PARCIC distributes food items and lunch boxes to families who are cutting back on food expenses due to the loss of income caused by the pandemic, aiming to support them in terms of meals and also alleviate their mental stress.

There was an interaction with a user that brought tears of joy to the eyes of a staff member.
Read more

AAR’s infection prevention activities for COVID-19 in refugee camps for people who have fled Myanmar

18th April 2021 23:59

• ©AAR

As part of the JPF program, JPF member NGO Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR), is implementing a project to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus by improving WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) in a refugee camp in Bangladesh for displaced people who have fled Myanmar and the host communities.

In order to improve the hygienic environment, AAR implements disinfection of toilets, bathrooms, wells, etc.
AAR also distributes sanitary supplies, especially to vulnerable households. The picture shows the awareness-raising activity for infection prevention where they are using illustrations to show how to prevent infection, such as wearing masks and washing hands.

AAR assisting with corona virus infection prevention for DRC Refugees in Uganda

17th April 2021 23:59

JPF member NGO Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR), is implementing a project at a refugee settlement in Uganda for refugees from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to prevent the spread of COVID-19 there.

Although many COVID-19 cases have been reported in Uganda, the knowledge necessary to prevent infection is not sufficiently available to the population in the DRC refugee settlements. AAR conducts infection prevention awareness activities and promoting to wash hands and wear masks along with other countermeasures.

Ten hygiene educators were selected from among the refugees and received training. Last month, AAR staff and the hygiene educators conducted an awareness-raising campaign in refugee settlements and surrounding areas for two weeks. They also distributed posters with information on coronavirus symptoms and hotlines.

JPF Member NGO Supported Internally Displaced People in Syria to Prevent COVID-19 Spread

16th April 2021 23:59

Internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Syria are living in crowded housing conditions and lack access to necessary hygiene products to prevent the new coronavirus infection due to rise in prices.

JPF member NGO provided support to IDPs, distributing hygiene products including detergent, soap, sanitary napkins to more than 3,000 households and completed the activity at the end of last month.

PARCIC Supports Households Affected by the New Coronavirus

12th April 2021 23:59

• ©PARCIC

Specified Nonprofit Corporation PARC Interpeoples’ Cooperation (PARCIC), a JPF member NGO, is providing meal support to children and the elderly in Katsushika-city, Tokyo.

PARCIC is distributing boxed lunches and food items.
Children lost their lunch when the school was in spring holiday last month. During the period of holiday PARCIC distributed boxed lunches.
A beneficiary parent and child who stopped by on the last day said that the lunches helped them a lot.

AAR preventing the spread of corona virus in refugee camp for people who have fled Myanmar

9th April 2021 23:59

As part of the JPF program, JPF member NGO Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR), is implementing a project to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus by improving WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) in a refugee camp in Bangladesh for displaced people who have fled Myanmar and the host communities.

On a daily basis, AAR disinfects toilets, wells, bathrooms and drainage ditches with poor sanitation in camps and host communities.

In addition, awareness-raising activities on infection prevention are being conducted. As many men are unable to participate because of work, AAR is working to set up certain days in advance that makes it easier for such people to participate.

New projects started, JPF is continuing Coronavirus (COVID-19) Emergency Response

7th April 2021 23:59

• Distribution of foods to households affected economically by the pandemic(Japan) ©PARCIC

JPF has been conducting Coronavirus (COVID-19) Emergency Response since February 2020. We have extended the duration of the response by one year and have begun new projects.

In order to prevent further deterioration of the existing humanitarian crisis, JPF is providing assistance at refugee camps for people who have fled Myanmar in Bangladesh, refugee camps in South Sudan, refugee settlement in Uganda for refugees from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and also to Syrian refugees in Turkey.

In Japan, in order to reduce the burden on people in need of special care, JPF provides support for welfare facilities for the elderly and the disabled, as well as for families that are economically affected by the pandemic by providing food items.

SPJ's Assistance for Syrian Refugees Affected by the Coronavirus Pandemic in Turkey

5th April 2021 23:59

JPF member NGO SDGs Promise Japan (SPJ) launched a project to distribute sanitary supplies to Syrian refugees and host communities affected by the new coronavirus pandemic in Turkey.

The virus is spreading in Turkey. However, due to the deteriorating economy, it is difficult for Syrian refugees and the local people who are in financially vulnerable situation to purchase supplies to fight infection. There is also a lack of understanding of hygiene for infection prevention.
SPJ began providing assistance to Syrian refugees and vulnerable local residents. They will distribute sanitary supplies and conduct awareness raising activities to prevent the spread of infection.

GNJP distributes groceries and other items to single-parent families

3rd April 2021 23:59

• Photo provided by a beneficiary ©GNJP

Good Neighbors Japan (GNJP), a JPF member NGO, is currently implementing a relief project by distributing food and other supplies to single-parent families in Tokyo and three prefectures as a JPF program.

Although the state of emergency has been lifted, there are still no signs of the corona outbreak being under control, and many families are still affected economically.
GNJP has distributed food items to over 4,000 households by the end of March.
In addition, in order to provide psychological support to single-parent families who tend to be isolated in the city, they sent out information and consultations through mobile apps and phone calls.

AAR Preventing New Coronavirus Spread at DRC Refugee Settlement

30th March 2021 23:59

JPF member NGO Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR), is implementing a project at a refugee settlement in Uganda for refugees from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to prevent the spread of COVID-19 there.

As of 30 March, more than 40,000 COVID-19 cases have been reported in Uganda. As the healthcare system is weak in refugee settlements and it is also difficult for the people to obtain hygiene items to prevent infection, there is need for support on infection control. In addition to the distribution of supplies such as disinfectants and soap, AAR conducts hygiene awareness activities to prevent infection in the settlement. Ten hygiene awareness educators have been selected from among the residents, and after they attend a training course on COVID-19 infection control, they work together with AAR staff to raise awareness among refugees and host community members.

PARCIC delivers aid to households facing economic hardship due to the pandemic

28th March 2021 23:59

• Volunteers help prepare food packages ©PARCIC

Specified Nonprofit Corporation PARC Interpeoples’ Cooperation (PARCIC), a JPF member NGO, is delivering food aid to children and seniors in Katsushika City, Tokyo.

PARCIC is distributing bento box meals as well as food items including rice, ready-to-eat foods and instant ramen.
This time, they included hina-arare (a special type of rice cracker) in celebration of Hinamatsuri (Doll Festival) on March 3.
They include seasonal items with the hope that it would bring peace of mind to parents busy with work and raising children.

GNJP Preventing Pandemic-Induced Isolation Among Single-Parent Households

26th March 2021 23:59

• Base dedicated to food distribution ©GNJP

As part of the JPF program, JPF member NGO Good Neighbors Japan (GNJP) is currently implementing a relief project to provide food and other items to single-parent households in Tokyo and three surrounding prefectures.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, many families are experiencing even more financial difficulties than in normal times. GNJP is distributing food and hygiene items to ensure that these families have enough food and a healthy living environment.

Even before the pandemic, many single parents in urban areas tended to be isolated, having no one to talk to about problems in their daily lives or in raising their children. Due to the impact of the pandemic, opportunities for social interactions have become even more limited. Through their helpline services via phone, e-mail, and the mobile app, GNJP is making sure nobody is left behind among those who need support and is working towards alleviating their psychological burden and anxiety.

Vnet Assisting with Coronavirus Countermeasures in Gifu Prefecture

24th March 2021 23:59

• ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet is providing assistance in Gifu Prefecture where the organization is physically based. They are continuing to support measures against the spread of the new coronavirus at sheltered workshops and other welfare facilities serving persons with disabilities (PWDs) in communities where medical provision is weak (including Gujo City, Nakatsugawa City, Ena City, Shirakawa Town, and Higashi Shirakawa Village).

Several facilities that Vnet has been supporting are located in areas that are far from hospitals that can provide intensive care for COVID-19 patients. Therefore, preventive measures become all the more important for these facilities as a top priority.

In this photo, we can see Vnet staff delivering plexiglass anti-droplet barriers. One of the employees at this facility, who noticed people in the community were a lot more out and about recently, said about Vnet’s assistance, "I was worried, but now I feel safer.”

PWJ's Coronavirus Infection Prevention Assistance in IDP Camp in South Sudan

22nd March 2021 23:59

• ©PWJ
• ©PWJ

As part of the JPF program, JPF member NGO Peace Winds Japan (PWJ) is implementing a project to support the prevention of new coronavirus infections in South Sudan.

The camps in South Sudan where internally displaced persons (IDPs) live are overcrowded and lack water supply and sanitation facilities such as toilets. These conditions could result in serious harm for the residents if infection spreads. PWJ is providing assistance at multiple IDP camps in Juba, the capital of the state of Central Equatoria, carrying out infection awareness activities and making sure the sanitation of shared toilets can be maintained under the leadership of the residents themselves.

Also, PWJ is improving water supply and sanitation facilities at several healthcare facilities in Central and Eastern Equatoria states where PCR testing and COVID-19 treatment are administered. At one of the healthcare facilities, they are distributing hygiene items to hospitalized COVID-19 patients. PWJ is taking thorough preventative measures in their own activities in order to prevent the spread of infection in the areas where they are providing support.

GNJP’s Assistance for Households Economically Affected by the Coronavirus Pandemic

20th March 2021 23:59

©GNJP

As part of the JPF program, JPF member NGO Good Neighbors Japan (GNJP) is currently implementing a relief project to provide food and other items to single-parent households in Tokyo and three surrounding prefectures.

GNJP distributes food and hygiene items necessary for daily life to households economically affected by the coronavirus pandemic. They distribute these items by delivery. To date, food has been given to over 3,500 households.

This photo shows a thank you postcard from a child from one of the families who received the relief package. We can see that the child drew a parent and a child happily eating a meal together, with the person on the left saying, "Isn’t this delicious?” and the other replying, “Yes, it is.” The parent also wrote this message on the right side of the postcard: “We always appreciate your help in so many ways. Thank you!”

AAR’s Coronavirus Infection Prevention Assistance at Camp for Refugees from Myanmar

18th March 2021 23:59

• Awareness-raising activity ©AAR

As part of the JPF program, JPF member NGO Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR), is implementing a project to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus by improving WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) in a refugee camp in Bangladesh for displaced people who have fled Myanmar and the host communities.

In addition to regularly disinfecting toilets, wells, and bathing rooms, and installing water supply facilities, AAR is also conducting educational activities to prevent the spread. Leaflets with illustrations of infection prevention methods are distributed to both camp residents and host community members to make it easier for people to understand these measures. Sessions were conducted in small groups, mostly outdoors, and more than 600 families participated in total during February.

Vnet Assisting Coronavirus Prevention Measures at .. Facilities for PWDs

16th March 2021 23:59

• ©Vnet
• ©Vnet

During this coronavirus pandemic, cluster infections have occurred in facilities serving persons with disabilities (PWDs). In residential facilities for PWDs, there are situations where people who have contracted COVID-19 must remain in the facility because there are no beds available at hospitals in the region. There has been an actual case where even though the facility had set zoning in place to protect all the residents, a resident infected with the coronavirus tried to return to their usual room, walked around the facility, and inadvertently spread the virus to others.

At welfare facilities for PWDs in Gifu Prefecture that JPF member NGO Vnet supports, including sheltered workshops where workers are training to transition to non-welfare work, they are installing plexiglass anti-drop barriers to prevent the spread of infections. Vnet supports facilities in areas with weak medical care provision that are far from hospitals that can treat COVID-19 patients.

PARCIC Delivers Food to Families in Katsushika Affected by the Coronavirus Pandemic

14th March 2021 23:59

• Preparations for distribution ©PARCIC

JPF member NGO PARC Interpeoples' Cooperation (PARCIC) is providing meal support for children and the elderly in Katsushika Ward, Tokyo.

Unemployment is on the rise due to the coronavirus pandemic. Even if people are not officially unemployed or laid off from work, the number of female part-time workers who are effectively unemployed due to reduced shifts is also increasing, and many are finding it difficult to make ends meet.

PARCIC provides food assistance to families who have been economically affected due to the rise in COVID-19 cases. PARCIC distributes boxed meals and groceries, and the number of beneficiaries is increasing as awareness of their activities spread through word of mouth.

WVJ Completes Assistance to Prevent COVID-19 Spread at Camp for Refugees from Myanmar

12th March 2021 23:59

• Awareness-raising activity on infection prevention for the children was held as part of the project ©WVJ

As part of the JPF program, JPF member NGO World Vision Japan (WVJ) was implementing a WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) project in Bangladesh at a refugee camp for people who have fled Myanmar. The project supported the prevention of the spread of COVID-19 there and was completed at the end of last month.

WVJ has provided WASH support essential to the prevention of the spread of infections, such as distribution of buckets with faucets for handwashing to more than 1,200 households, provision of menstrual hygiene products to more than 4,000 people, and installment of 100 shared handwashing stations. They also repaired more than 40 deep wells, and the refugees who previously did not have access to sufficient water have expressed their satisfaction with the improved access to water for various purposes such as handwashing and cooking.

PWJ Completed Coronavirus Infection Prevention Assistance for Eldercare Facilities in Japan

10th March 2021 23:59

• ©PWJ

As of the end of January 2021, JPF member NGO Peace Winds Japan (PWJ) completed its comprehensive support project in Japan that began in July 2020 and was implemented as part of the JPF program. This project aimed at strengthening the infection prevention capacity of welfare facilities serving the elderly.

PWJ distributed infection prevention supplies at eldercare facilities where residents are at high risk of becoming seriously ill if infected. PWJ also trained the staff at these facilities on infection prevention measures, with the training conducted by medical doctors and other experts. The infection prevention supplies included disposable plastic gowns and gloves as well as washable reusable gowns, and these items were distributed to more than 1,000 facilities. In total, more than 200 facilities participated in the training. PWJ's support was intended to meet the needs of these facilities so that they could implement appropriate infection prevention measures.

Vnet Assisting Coronavirus Countermeasures at.. Facilities for PWDs in Japan

8th March 2021 23:59

• ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet is providing assistance in Gifu Prefecture where the organization is physically based. They are supporting measures against the spread of the new coronavirus at sheltered workshops and other welfare facilities serving persons with disabilities (PWDs) in communities where medical provision is weak (including Gujo City, Nakatsugawa City, Ena City, Shirakawa Town, and Higashi Shirakawa Village).

In areas where Vnet provides assistance, it takes more than an hour and a half by car to get to a hospital that can provide intensive treatment for COVID-19 patients. This means that there is a risk that the patient may not be able to cope with the situation while being transported, if transportation is delayed due to an accident or a natural disaster.

Vnet continues to make and distribute plexiglass anti-droplet barriers to prevent the spread of infections for facilities serving PWDs. They also make visits to check on the areas within these facilities where infection control measures are inadequate. One of the facilities to which Vnet delivered the anti-droplet barriers thanked them by saying, "This gives us a peace of mind, and we are truly grateful.”

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Emergency Response Program Term Extension: Calling for Donations

6th March 2021 3:00

• Door-to-door activities to raise awareness of infection prevention ©WVJ

Japan Platform (JPF) has extended the term for the Coronavirus Emergency Response Program, which started in February 2020, for an additional year until the end of March 2022, in response to the conditions and needs in Japan and internationally.

Overseas, JPF will continue to provide support to vulnerable populations in countries and regions where we currently have projects being implemented. We aim to prevent our current assistance activities from being cancelled due to the further spread of COVID-19, so that we can ultimately prevent the further deterioration of existing humanitarian crisis.

In Japan, we aim to reduce the burden on those who need special care while the country remains on high alert to prevent the spread of this virus. We will continue to carry out activities as we adapt to the changing circumstances and needs.

GNJP’s Assistance for Single-Parent Households Affected by the Coronavirus Pandemic

4th March 2021 23:59

©GNJP

As part of the JPF program, JPF member NGO Good Neighbors Japan (GNJP) is currently implementing a relief project to provide food and other items to single-parent households in Tokyo and three surrounding prefectures.

As the state of emergency declaration continues to take effect in the Tokyo metropolitan area, the lives of many single-parent families are becoming more and more economically difficult.

The photo shows a handwritten message from a GNJP staff that was included when relief items were distributed at the end of last year. It includes a story of a beneficiary of this project sending an uplifting message to other beneficiaries, saying, "We're all working hard every day, but [...] I'm sure happiness awaits us!”

AAR’s Infection Prevention Assistance for DRC Refugee Settlement in Uganda

2nd March 2021 23:59

JPF member NGO Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR), is implementing a project at a refugee settlement in Uganda for refugees from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to prevent the spread of COVID-19 there.

AAR provides assistance in a refugee settlement where medical provision is weak and hygiene items for infection prevention are not readily available. They distribute supplies such as soap, masks, simple water tanks for hand washing, and alcohol disinfectants. During the distribution of supplies, AAR also provides hygiene instructions to the residents. To provide appropriate hygiene guidance, the distribution staff receive hygiene training from experts in the field of infectious disease control. The training includes lectures on the characteristics of the new coronavirus and how to prevent infections, as well as mock exercises that simulate actual hygiene instructions.

Vnet's Assistance to Prevent COVID-19 Infection at Facilities for PWDs

28th February 2021 23:59

• ©Vnet
• ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet is providing assistance in Gifu Prefecture. Their project aims at improving measures against the spread of the new coronavirus at sheltered workshops and other welfare facilities serving persons with disabilities (PWDs) in communities where medical provision is weak (including Gujo City, Nakatsugawa City, Ena City, Shirakawa Town, and Higashi Shirakawa Village).

At this time, Vnet delivered the requested plexiglass anti-droplet barriers to two facilities for PWDs in Gujo City. The anti-droplet barriers are carefully assembled and installed one by one. Vnet helps make it safer for the facility users and staff who spend their days there, which also helps their families feel more secure. Vnet was glad to receive a word of gratitude from the recipient saying, "Our staff and users are all happy to use your gifts. Thank you very much."

WVJ's Assistance to Prevent COVID-19 Spread in Camp for Refugees from Myanmar

26th February 2021 23:59

• Awareness-raising activity on infection prevention as part of the project ©WVJ

As part of the JPF program, JPF member NGO World Vision Japan (WVJ) is implementing a WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) project in Bangladesh at a refugee camp for people who have fled Myanmar. The project is in support of preventing the spread of COVID-19 there.

Nearly 400 new COVID-19 cases have been confirmed in the refugee camps this month, and there are no signs of the pandemic being under control throughout the rest of Bangladesh, either. WVJ has been distributing infection prevention items and installing and repairing WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) facilities to help control the spread. This month, WVJ laid the foundation for the installation of shared handwashing stations that are accessible to children and people with disabilities. There are about 100 of these shared handwashing stations, and they plan to install water tanks so that the stations can be used.

PARCIC's Meal Assistance in Tokyo During the Pandemic

24th February 2021 23:59

• ©PARCIC

JPF member NGO PARC Interpeoples' Cooperation (PARCIC) is providing meal support for children and the elderly in Katsushika Ward, Tokyo.

PARCIC has been distributing groceries and boxed lunches to families affected by the new coronavirus pandemic. The photo shows the food items distributed in early February. Since it was before Valentine's Day, they also distributed wrapped mini chocolate cakes and chocolates. PARCIC distributes these seasonal items with hopes for giving something that can help parents and guardians, who are busily juggling work and parenting, feel a little more relaxed.

JPF Member NGO Distributing Hygiene Items in Syria to Prevent Coronavirus Spread

22nd February 2021 19:35

In Syria, where healthcare, hygiene, and sanitation facilities and services are not functioning adequately due to the civil conflict, the spread of the new coronavirus is a major threat to the wellbeing of its people. Internally displaced persons (IDPs) who have been repeatedly displaced are forced to live in overcrowded camps and communities. They also face difficulties in accessing adequate sanitation services and water. In response, a JPF member NGO is providing assistance for the IDPs by distributing water tanks, soap, anti-lice shampoo, and menstrual products.

Vnet Assisting Facilities for PWDs in Medically Vulnerable Communities to Prevent COVID-19 Spread

20th February 2021 23:59

• ©Vnet
• ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet is providing assistance in Gifu Prefecture. Their project aims at improving measures against the spread of the new coronavirus at sheltered workshops and other welfare facilities serving persons with disabilities (PWDs) in communities where medical provision is weak (including Gujo City, Nakatsugawa City, Ena City, Shirakawa Town, and Higashi Shirakawa Village).

Through this project, Vnet assesses the status of infection control measures at these welfare facilities, provides advice on control measures in partnership with infectious disease specialists, and distributes necessary materials such as anti-droplet barriers.

At this time, Vnet interviewed facilities serving PWDs in the cities of Ena and Nakatsugawa and installed anti-droplet barriers there. One of the facilities thanked Vnet by commenting, "The plexiglass barriers are transparent, so they are easy for us to use, and we are very grateful for this support.” Vnet will continue its support to control the occurrence of cluster infections at these facilities, protect the safety of facility users, and to increase the sense of safety and security in the larger community.

PARCIC’s Meal Assistance for Families Affected by the New Coronavirus

18th February 2021 23:59

JPF member NGO PARC Interpeoples' Cooperation (PARCIC) is providing meal support for children and the elderly in Katsushika Ward, Tokyo.

Many single-parent families are suffering from reduced income due to the effects of the new coronavirus pandemic and are having difficulty making ends meet. As a result, these families have become overwhelmed and some have become depressed, so they are in need of continuous support.

PARCIC distributes groceries and boxed lunches to families who are cutting back on food expenses and cannot afford nutritious meals. When they had the food pantry in early February, PARCIC distributed bananas and commercially packaged nonperishable food. They also aim to reduce anxiety and stress among these families by supporting them with meals.

GNJP Continuing to Assist Single-Parent Households

16th February 2021 23:59

• Items are delivered to homes to prevent the spread of infections ©GNJP

As part of the JPF program, JPF member NGO Good Neighbors Japan (GNJP) is currently implementing a relief project to provide food and other items to single-parent households in Tokyo and three surrounding prefectures.

GNJP distributes food and hygiene items to needy single-parent families in Tokyo, Kanagawa, Saitama, and Chiba prefectures. It has been more than a year since the first COVID-19 case was confirmed in Japan. GNJP continues to support single-parent families so that they can have enough food and a healthy living environment without feeling abandoned while many suffer economic hardships and struggle to adapt to the new lifestyle that has emerged as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

Vnet’s Assistance in Gifu Prefecture for Communities Facing Weak Medical Provision

14th February 2021 1:30

• ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet is providing assistance in Gifu Prefecture. Their project aims at improving measures against the spread of the new coronavirus at sheltered workshops and other welfare facilities serving persons with disabilities (PWDs) in communities where medical provision is weak (including Gujo City, Nakatsugawa City, Ena City, Shirakawa Town, and Higashi Shirakawa Village).

Vnet delivers plexiglass anti-droplet barriers to welfare facilities serving persons with disabilities. In Gifu Prefecture, a state of emergency was declared in January. Many of these facilities report having already used up their public funds for control measures against the new coronavirus. Vnet received word from one such facility that remarked, "We were very worried, and this kind of support is very helpful, so we are truly grateful.”

Vnet will continue to provide support for these facilities while carefully taking measures against the spread of infections in their own activities.

WVJ’s Assistance in Camp for Refugees from Myanmar

12th February 2021 23:59

• WVJ’s awareness-raising activity on infection prevention as part of its project. Activities targeted women, children, and persons with disabilities. ©WVJ

As part of the JPF program, JPF member NGO World Vision Japan (WVJ) is implementing a WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) project in Bangladesh at a refugee camp for people who have fled Myanmar. The project is in support of preventing the spread of COVID-19 there.

In the refugee camps, there is a lack of supplies and WASH facilities, even though both are vital in preventing the spread of infections. WVJ is distributing menstrual products and buckets with faucets for hand washing to help the residents live more hygienically. They are also installing and repairing WASH facilities, including night soil collection and deep well repairs. These activities are aimed at creating a more hygienic environment for people to spend time in so that the spread of infections can be better controlled.

AAR’s Assistance in Bangladesh at Camp for Refugees from Myanmar

10th February 2021 23:59

• Disinfection demonstration by public health experts ©AAR

As part of the JPF program, JPF member NGO Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR), is implementing a project to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus by improving WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) in a refugee camp in Bangladesh for displaced people who have fled Myanmar and the host communities.

AAR is conducting hygiene awareness activities to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and is distributing hygiene items in the camps and host communities. In the host communities, AAR plans to especially target vulnerable populations such as households headed by women and those that have family members with disabilities. In addition, AAR will conduct regular disinfection of toilets, wells, and bathing rooms in the refugee camps and host communities, as well as the installation of WASH facilities there. These measures aim to create an environment where people can engage in hygiene practices for infection prevention such as hand washing and gargling.

PARCIC's Meal Assistance in Tokyo

8th February 2021 23:59

• ©PARCIC

JPF member NGO PARC Interpeoples' Cooperation (PARCIC) is providing meal support for children and the elderly in Katsushika Ward, Tokyo.

According to the results of a survey conducted by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government on changes in living conditions, there was an increase in the number of Tokyo residents who answered that their lives had become more difficult compared to the previous year. PARCIC provides food assistance to families who are forced to cut back on food expenses due to unemployment or reduced income. They also distribute boxed lunches. Through this support, PARCIC also aims to reduce anxiety and stress among their beneficiaries.

AAR's Assistance to Support the Livelihoods of PWDs

7th February 2021 23:59

• Sheltered workshop workers carefully checking boxed masks and packing them into cardboard boxes ©AAR

As part of the JPF program, JPF member NGO Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR), is distributing supplies to persons with disabilities (PWDs) to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus and is also supporting the improvement of remote work environment for sheltered workshops and other organizations for PWDs.

Business activities declined due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. As a result, the amount of work orders also decreased at the sheltered workshops where PWDs work. There have been concerns about the impact on the mental health and physical conditions of PWDs with less work for them to do now, because many people had found working a meaningful and life-giving activity.

As a result, AAR decided to outsource the packing and shipping of hygiene items, which are to be distributed to welfare facilities across the country, to these sheltered workshops as a means to provide work opportunities. At these sheltered workshops, AAR heard comments from the workers such as, "I enjoy packing the masks in the shipping cardboard boxes in the correct quantity," and "I take responsibility for making sure that the boxes of masks are not crushed."

Vnet Supporting Welfare Service Facilities for Persons with Disabilities

5th February 2021 16:00

• ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet is providing assistance in Gifu Prefecture. Their project aims at improving measures against the spread of the new coronavirus at sheltered workshops and other welfare facilities serving persons with disabilities (PWDs) in communities where medical provision is weak (including Gujo City, Nakatsugawa City, Ena City, Shirakawa Town, and Higashi Shirakawa Village).

Many private facilities do not have sufficient infection control measures in place, partly because many of them are in financial difficulty. In Gifu Prefecture, a state of emergency was declared in January. In areas where healthcare provision is weak, healthcare facilities that can treat COVID-19 patients are far away, so many welfare facilities serving PWDs are asking for plexiglass anti-droplet barriers as soon as possible to prevent the spread of infection.

Vnet delivered the plexiglass barriers to one such facility for PWDs in Gujo City late last month. They received words of relief from the facility, being told, "We're really grateful for your help given the current conditions." Vnet will continue to provide support by taking all possible measures to prevent infection in their own activities.

AAR's Assistance for DRC Refugees in Uganda

3rd February 2021 23:59

JPF member NGO Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR), is implementing a project at a refugee settlement in Uganda for refugees from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to prevent the spread of COVID-19 there.

Healthcare system in the refugee settlements is weak, and there is fear that if an infectious disease spreads, it will be difficult for people to receive any treatment. To make matters more difficult, the restrictions on movement due to the coronavirus pandemic has caused a slowdown in the transportation of goods, and there is a shortage of hygiene items such as soap and masks in the refugee settlements. In addition, residents who have lost their means of earning income are unable to obtain hygiene items, making it difficult for them to practice infectious disease prevention measures.

AAR is distributing soap, masks, simple water tanks for hand washing, and rubbing alcohol as well as conducting awareness raising activities to prevent the spread of infection.

WVJ’s Assistance in Bangladesh at Camp for Refugees from Myanmar

1st February 2021 23:59

• Awareness-raising activity on infection prevention as part of WVJ’s project. Illustrations were used to explain what is important in preventing the spread. ©WVJ

As part of the JPF program, JPF member NGO World Vision Japan (WVJ) is implementing a WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) project in Bangladesh at a refugee camp for people who have fled Myanmar. The project is in support of preventing the spread of COVID-19 there.

There is a high risk of the spread of the disease in refugee camps where people live in close quarters and WASH facilities are lacking. While it is important to wash hands before and after meals and after using the toilet to prevent infections, many families in the camps are not able to practice hand washing because they do not have access to enough water and the facilities are also insufficient. WVJ is distributing buckets with faucets so that people can wash their hands at home to prevent the spread of the virus.

GNJP’s Assistance for Single-Parent Families

29th January 2021 23:59

• Photo provided by a beneficiary ©GNJP

As part of the JPF program, JPF member NGO Good Neighbors Japan (GNJP) is currently implementing a relief project to provide food and other items to single-parent households in Tokyo and three surrounding prefectures.

State of emergency has been declared in Tokyo and these surrounding prefectures. While schools will not be closed due to this, it is feared that single parents and their children will be placed in a more vulnerable situation as the parents’ employment is affected by this declaration.

GNJP has been distributing food and hygiene items to support single-parent families, and they have reached nearly 3,000 households so far. The photo shows how one beneficiary family received the items.

Vnet’s Assistance in Japan for Communities Facing Weak Medical Provision

26th January 2021 23:59

• ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet is providing assistance in Gifu Prefecture. Their project aims at improving measures against the spread of the new coronavirus at sheltered workshops and other welfare facilities serving persons with disabilities (PWDs) in communities where medical provision is weak (including Gujo City, Nakatsugawa City, Ena City, Shirakawa Town, and Higashi Shirakawa Village).

In communities where the healthcare provision is weak, people need to travel quite a distance to medical facilities that can treat COVID-19 patients. This makes daily prevention of infection all the more important.

Vnet conducted interviews at several sheltered workshops and other welfare facilities serving PWDs in Ena City. Some of the facilities were equipped with hand-made anti-droplet barriers made of plastic sheets and other materials, but in some areas of these facilities such as rest spaces where people gather, there were not enough measures set in place. Hence Vnet decided to create and deliver plexiglass anti-droplet barriers to these facilities.

Vnet Assisting Welfare Facilities for Persons with Disabilities

20th January 2021 23:59

• ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet has begun a project this month aimed at improving measures against the spread of the new coronavirus at sheltered workshops and other welfare facilities serving persons with disabilities (PWDs) in areas of Gifu Prefecture where healthcare is weak (including Gujo City, Nakatsugawa City, Ena City, Shirakawa Town, and Higashi Shirakawa Village).

Vnet provides advice on infection control measures to facilities in medically vulnerable regions that are far away from hospitals that can provide intensive care for COVID-19 patients. They also create and install anti-droplet barriers that are necessary at these facilities. Through this support, Vnet aims to reduce the occurrence of infection clusters and to increase community safety and security.

On this day, Vnet went to Gujo City to deliver the requested plexiglass anti-droplet barriers. At first, the facility users looked nervous, but they eventually smiled for the camera and made V signs with their fingers behind the plexiglass barriers. The space where they work in this sheltered workshop is where they also take breaks and eat meals, so the facility staff said, "We feel really safe now with these," sounding pleased that they received this support.

GNJP Assisting Single-Parent Households with Food and Hygiene Items

18th January 2021 23:59

• ©GNJP

As part of the JPF program, JPF member NGO Good Neighbors Japan (GNJP) is currently implementing a relief project to provide food and other items to single-parent households in Tokyo and three surrounding prefectures.

The coronavirus pandemic is having a great impact on people's daily lives and economic activities. It has caused great financial hardship on many single-parent families, who had already been vulnerable prior to the pandemic. GNJP distributes food and hygiene items to ensure that the parents and children in these single-parent households have sufficient food and a healthy living environment. Distribution is done through shipment to prevent the spread of infection. The photo shows the preparation for shipping.

WVJ's Sanitation Improvement Assistance at Camp for Refugees from Myanmar

16th January 2021 23:59

• Awareness raising session on infection prevention for refugee girls from Myanmar ©WVJ

JPF member NGO World Vision Japan (WVJ) is implementing a WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) project in Bangladesh at a refugee camp for people who have fled Myanmar. The project is in support of preventing the spread of COVID-19 there.

COVID-19 cases have been reported in the refugee camps, making it extremely important that sanitation be improved to prevent further spread of infections. In addition to repairing and installing WASH facilities such as shared handwashing stations and wells, WVJ also distributes feminine hygiene items and underwear to women and girls so that they can properly manage their menstrual hygiene.

WVJ also conducts infection prevention awareness activities. A man in his 20s who participated in the awareness session said, "My family practices handwashing at each of the six important times for handwashing, which I learned through the awareness session."

GNJP's Assistance for Single-Parent Families as Isolation Prevention

14th January 2021 23:59

• Photo provided by a beneficiary (words read "thank you") ©GNJP

As part of the JPF program, JPF member NGO Good Neighbors Japan (GNJP) is currently implementing a relief project to provide food and other items to single-parent households in Tokyo and three surrounding prefectures.

About half of single-parent families in Japan are said to be living in relative poverty. With the spread of the new coronavirus taking a heavy toll on the economy, many such households are in even more dire straits. Loss of income and unemployment have affected their food budget even though food is essential for their lives, especially for the growth of children. In response to these current conditions surrounding single-parent households, GNJP has been distributing food as well as hygiene items that are necessary to prevent infection.

Additionally, in light of the fact that single parents in urban areas tend to be isolated and have no one to talk to when they face problems in their daily lives or in raising their children, GNJP has set up a helpline. Through this phone and e-mail helpline, GNJP aims to alleviate the psychological burden and anxiety among these parents.

PARCIC's Meal Assistance for Children

12th January 2021 23:59

JPF member NGO PARC Interpeoples' Cooperation (PARCIC) is providing meal support for children and the elderly in Katsushika Ward, Tokyo.

PARCIC is distributing groceries and boxed meals to families in need who are struggling financially due to the spread of the new coronavirus. The goal is to provide nutritious meals to parents and children in households that have had no choice but to cut down on food expenses.

During the year-end and new year holidays, PARCIC distributed boxed lunches and milk to children who do not have school lunches during winter break. They also provided meals through the children's cafeteria, but this activity has been suspended due to the rapid increase in COVID-19 cases in Tokyo.

WVJ's Assistance at Camp for Refugees from Myanmar in Bangladesh

8th January 2021 23:59

• Using illustrations to carry out an infection prevention awareness activity for children ©WVJ

JPF member NGO World Vision Japan (WVJ) is implementing a WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) project in Bangladesh at a refugee camp for people who have fled Myanmar. The project is in support of preventing the spread of COVID-19 there.

With the ongoing global pandemic, there are concerns about the spread of COVID-19 in Bangladesh and in the refugee camps. In the camps where the displaced people live in close quarters, there is a lack of handwashing facilities and toilets, and many of the existing facilities are in need of repair. Access to information on infectious diseases and prevention methods is also inadequate due to the camp residents largely being cut off from information coming from outside the camps.

WVJ is working to improve sanitation by installing shared handwashing stations and collecting night soil from toilets. A man in his 40s who attended WVJ's infection prevention awareness session said, "I have gained a lot of new information through the session, and it has been helpful in raising my own awareness and practicing infection prevention measures."

JPF Member NGO Providing Assistance in Syria

6th January 2021 23:59

In Syria, where healthcare and sanitation facilities and services have not been adequately functioning due to the conflict, the spread of the new coronavirus poses a serious threat. A JPF member NGO is distributing hygiene items to IDPs (internally displaced persons) living in camps that are overcrowded and lack adequate WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) facilities. Items include detergent, sanitary napkins, and soap, among others, and this assistance will help reduce the risk of infection.

Gratitude for Our Supporters and Meeting Report: Kyosaren hosted a Thanks Meeting for us!

6th January 2021 19:00

• 

On 24 December 2020, JPF staff got to participate in a Thanks Meeting that was kindly hosted by the national headquarters of Kyosaren, or Japan Association of Community Workshops for Disabled Persons. JPF staff participated along with staff from our member NGO Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR).

We were able to connect online with the facilities and workshops for persons with disabilities across Japan that are members of Kyosaren, who receive the hygiene items distributed as part of AAR's COVID-19 response project. It was a very valuable opportunity for us to listen to what the facility users and staff members have to say, as we cannot go and visit them directly due to the coronavirus pandemic.

We were pleased to hear that the hygiene items they needed - such as masks, antiseptic solutions, and non-contact thermometers - arrived just as they needed them. We were also glad to hear them say, "We felt reassured that there were people out there who wanted to support us." We truly appreciated their time and this opportunity to meet each other online despite all of their busy schedules.

The words of appreciation we received from our beneficiaries at this meeting are, of course, also extended to the many businesses, organizations, and individuals who have given to JPF's Coronavirus (COVID-19) Emergency Response. At JPF, we connect your gifts to the beneficiaries, and at this time, as we share this meeting report with you, we would like to express our gratitude to you, once again, for all of your support.

For more information on Kyosaren, please visit here.

GNJP's Assistance for Single-Parent Households in the Tokyo Metropolitan Region

4th January 2021 23:59

• Preparing to ship relief items ©GNJP

As part of the JPF program, JPF member NGO Good Neighbors Japan (GNJP) is currently implementing a relief project to provide food and other items to single-parent households in Tokyo and three surrounding prefectures.

Through this project, GNJP has been distributing food and hygiene items to single-parent families in need. More than 2,000 families have received the food so far. GNJP is also preparing multilingual flyers so that they can reach non-Japanese speaking families with their assistance. Distribution is done through shipment to prevent the spread of infection, and the photo shows the preparations to ship relief items.

WVJ's Infection Prevention Awareness Activity at Camp for Refugees from Myanmar

2nd January 2021 7:00

• Handwashing demonstration during this year's Global Handwashing Day awareness campaign ©WVJ

JPF member NGO World Vision Japan (WVJ) is implementing a WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) project in Bangladesh at a refugee camp for people who have fled Myanmar. The project is in support of preventing the spread of COVID-19 there.

There is no sign of the end of the coronavirus pandemic in Bangladesh, and COVID-19 cases have been confirmed in the refugee camps. In the camps, WVJ has been repairing WASH facilities, which have been inadequate in the camps but are important for preventing the spread of infections. Additionally, WVJ has been going door-to-door to raise awareness about infection prevention. A woman in her twenties whom WVJ visited in a camp noted, "Through the awareness activity, I learned how the new coronavirus is transmitted from person to person, and I am trying to do what I can to prevent infection by maintaining a safe physical distance even in the densely populated refugee camp."

CWS Assisting IDPs and Repatriated Refugees Affected by the New Coronavirus

29th December 2020 17:45

• Beneficiaries receive cash via the E-Cash System ©CWS

JPF member NGO CWS Japan is implementing an emergency cash assistance project in Bamiyan, Afghanistan, for internally displaced persons (IDPS) and repatriated refugees affected by the spread of the new coronavirus.

The spread of the new coronavirus continues in Afghanistan, which has already been experiencing multiple humanitarian crises due to conflict, poverty, and drought.

For their cash distribution for IDPs and repatriated refugees, CWS has prioritized the most vulnerable among them such as female-headed households, households that have persons with disabilities, households with orphaned or elderly members, and households that have not yet received assistance. The goal is to prevent the worsening of the food crisis and the negative coping strategies people use such as begging or selling their houses and land. Cash distribution is being carried out using the E-Cash system via mobile phones.

Messages Received from Eldercare Facilities

24th December 2020 16:00

• ©PWJ

As part of the JPF program, JPF member NGO Peace Winds Japan (PWJ) is implementing a comprehensive support project to strengthen the infection prevention capacity of welfare facilities for the elderly.

PWJ has heard from the eldercare facilities that they have been supporting that the relief items had been received. Some facilities sent messages to PWJ as well, and these messages from around Japan included warm and encouraging words for all the other eldercare facilities around the country. We would like to introduce some of these messages here.

"Your warm support and encouragement have inspired the nursing home staff to press on as we continue to work under nerve-wracking conditions. All of our staff will continue to work together to prevent the spread of infections so that our residents can live here safe and sound."
- Special nursing home for the elderly in Aichi Prefecture

"The prices of hygiene items have risen, so we will use your assistance with care. We can only hope that things will settle down soon and that we can return to a normal life. To all of you who are working hard across the country, let us do our best. We believe that dawn is near, but for now, we can only move forward."
- Special nursing home for the elderly in Fukuoka Prefecture

JPF will continue to work with its member NGOs to provide much-needed assistance to those in need.

AAR Begins Assistance in Refugee Camps for People Who Fled Myanmar

22nd December 2020 23:50

As part of the JPF program, JPF member NGO Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR), has begun its assistance project to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus by improving WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) in refugee camps in Bangladesh for displaced people who have fled Myanmar and for the host communities.

In response to the difficulty in obtaining hygiene products and the lack of clean water and sanitation facilities in the camps and host communities, AAR will distribute hygiene items such as soap, disinfect toilets, wells, and bathing facilities, and conduct awareness-raising activities to prevent the spread of infections.

PWJ's Infection Prevention Training for Eldercare Facilities

10th December 2020 22:00

• ©PWJ
• ©PWJ

As part of the JPF program, JPF member NGO Peace Winds Japan (PWJ) is implementing a comprehensive support project to strengthen the infection prevention capacity of eldercare facilities.

In partnership with Humanitarian Medical Assistance (HuMA), PWJ is providing training for eldercare facilities so that they can take appropriate infection prevention measures. The elderly are at high risk of their conditions intensifying when infected with the new coronavirus.

In mid-November, PWJ held trainings at several facilities in Tokyo. They checked the isolation areas in the facilities, checked the manuals and gave advice on them, and answered questions the staff had, which included questions about infection control measures for bathing, brushing teeth, and feeding and mealtime. Since many residents of these facilities are unable to wear masks, it is necessary for the facilities to devise ways to prevent their staff from being in close contact with the residents.

WVJ's Infection Prevention Awareness Activities at Camp for Refugees from Myanmar

9th December 2020 21:00

• Infection prevention awareness session ©WVJ

As part of the JPF program, JPF member NGO World Vision Japan (WVJ) is implementing a WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) project in Bangladesh at a refugee camp for people who have fled Myanmar. The project is in support of preventing the spread of COVID-19 there.

WVJ assists in the installation of shared hand-washing facilities in the camps since WASH facilities are not adequate there, even though they are imperative to practicing good hygiene to prevent infection. At the same time, WVJ conducts sessions on infection prevention and door-to-door visits to raise awareness. A man in his 40s, who had had WVJ's door-to-door visit, said, "In our family, to prevent infection, we all wash our hands thoroughly, keep our living environment hygienic, and always wear masks when we go out." Through repeated awareness-raising activities, the hand washing and mask wearing seem to have taken root.

Vnet's Infection Prevention Assistance in Gifu Prefecture

6th December 2020 15:00

• ©Vnet
• ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet has been implementing a project aimed at improving measures against the spread of the new coronavirus at sheltered workshops and other welfare facilities serving persons with disabilities in the northern part of Gifu Prefecture (including Takayama City, Hida City, Gero City, and Shirakawa Village). Vnet itself is physically based in the region.

Vnet delivered plexiglass anti-droplet barriers to several welfare facilities in the prefecture that had requested them. "These are transparent, and they look pretty, too! I bet working and taking breaks would be more enjoyable now!" Vnet was happy to receive such a positive comment from one facility where people take breaks in the same space that they work.

CWS's Assistance for IDPs and Repatriated Refugees in Afghanistan

4th December 2020 17:00

• Direct cash assistance for beneficiaries living outside the areas covered by the E-Cash system ©CWS

JPF member NGO CWS Japan is implementing an emergency cash assistance project in Bamiyan, Afghanistan, for internally displaced persons (IDPS) and repatriated refugees affected by the spread of the new coronavirus.

Bamiyan has been suffering from severe food shortages for a long time, but the spread of the new coronavirus has made people's lives even more difficult. Using the E-Cash system via mobile phones, CWS has been providing cash assistance to socio-economically vulnerable IDPs and repatriated refugees, especially those who often earn their living through day labor.

CWS's assistance is aimed at preventing the deterioration of the food shortage crisis and negative coping strategies such as begging. The cash provided is to be used by the beneficiaries for the purchase of food, medicine, clothing, and other necessities.

PARCIC's Assistance in Japan

2nd December 2020 23:00

• ©PARCIC

JPF member NGO PARC Interpeoples' Cooperation (PARCIC) is providing meal support for children and the elderly in Katsushika Ward, Tokyo.

PARCIC is currently supporting households that are struggling to make ends meet due to the economic downturn caused by the spread of COVID-19. They are distributing food supplies and boxed lunches, and also providing meals through the children's cafeteria. These activities help reduce the burden on parents and guardians and contribute to the children's mental and physical health.

The photo shows snacks being handed to an organization that belongs to the Katsushika Children's Cafeteria Network. These snacks were donated to the network that consists of children's cafeterias actively operating in Katsushika-ku, Tokyo.

AAR Distributing Infection Prevention Items to Welfare Facilities for PWDs

30th November 2020 20:00

As part of the JPF program, JPF member NGO Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR), is distributing supplies to persons with disabilities (PWDs) to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus and is also supporting the improvement of remote work environment for organizations for PWDs.

AAR distributes masks and other infection prevention supplies to kidney disease patients who are at high risk of having their conditions intensify if infected. The supplies are also distributed to welfare facilities for PWDs where there is a risk of cluster outbreaks due to people spending many hours together daily.

Considering the resurge of COVID-19 cases across the country, AAR is being proactive in preventing infection through their own activities. They actively communicate with welfare facilities for PWDs and sheltered workshops for PWDs via phone, email, and online conferencing tools so that they can continue their assistance activities remotely.

PWJ Delivering Infection Prevention Items to Eldercare Facility

28th November 2020 21:00

• ©PWJ

As part of the JPF program, JPF member NGO Peace Winds Japan (PWJ) is implementing a comprehensive support project to strengthen the infection prevention capacity of eldercare facilities.

Nationwide, the number of COVID-19 cases is on the rise, and elderly people are at high risk of having their conditions intensify if they are infected with the new coronavirus. PWJ distributes supplies such as disposable plastic gowns, plastic gloves, and reusable gowns to eldercare facilities to prevent infection.

The distribution is for facilities in Tokyo, Osaka, Kanagawa, Aichi, Fukuoka, and Okinawa prefectures, where infection is spreading rapidly, and PWJ is also collecting information on the current conditions in these facilities and the issues they face.

Vnet's Assistance for Welfare Facility

26th November 2020 23:00

• ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet has been implementing a project aimed at improving measures against the spread of the new coronavirus at sheltered workshops and other welfare facilities serving persons with disabilities in the northern part of Gifu Prefecture (including Takayama City, Hida City, Gero City, and Shirakawa Village). Vnet itself is physically based in the region.

Vnet delivered plexiglass anti-droplet barriers to a welfare facility in Hida City. Vnet received words of gratitude from the facility that the anti-droplet barriers with wheels that they had previously delivered were of great use at an event held in the facility. In fact, we were happy to hear from a facility staff who remarked, "We were able to hold an indoor event for the first time in a long time thanks to those, and the facility users were very happy."

WVJ's Assistance at Camp for Refugees from Myanmar

24th November 2020 23:54

• Infection prevention awareness session ©WVJ

JPF member NGO World Vision Japan (WVJ) is implementing a WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) project in Bangladesh at a refugee camp for people who have fled Myanmar. The project is in support of preventing the spread of COVID-19 there.

The camp does not have adequate WASH facilities for its residents to practice proper hygiene for the prevention of the spread of the new coronavirus. WVJ supports infection prevention through installing shared hand washing stations, repairing deep wells, and collecting night soil from the toilets. WVJ is also conducting infection prevention awareness sessions.

GNJP's Food Assistance in Japan

22nd November 2020 23:00

As part of the JPF program, JPF member NGO Good Neighbors Japan (GNJP) is currently implementing a relief project to provide food and other items to single-parent households in Tokyo and three surrounding prefectures.

GNJP has been distributing food and other items to single-parent families facing financial hardships in Tokyo, Kanagawa, Saitama, and Chiba prefectures. In order to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus, all distribution is done by delivery, and hygiene items such as masks and hand soap are included along with the food items that are essential for survival. So far, relief items have been distributed to more than 1,300 households.

Vnet Delivering Anti-Droplet Barriers

20th November 2020 23:00

• ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet has been implementing a project aimed at improving measures against the spread of the new coronavirus at sheltered workshops and other welfare facilities serving persons with disabilities in the northern part of Gifu Prefecture (including Takayama City, Hida City, Gero City, and Shirakawa Village). Vnet itself is physically based in the region.

Vnet delivered plexiglass anti-droplet barriers to a welfare facility in Takayama City. A facility user asked, "What are these?" and the staff responded, "You know, the popular anti-virus thing." The user smiled and said, "Oh! That's what these are!"

Vnet received the following comment from this facility: "We have been worried seeing the news recently, but we're now relieved that the anti-droplet barriers have arrived."

CWS's Assistance in Afghanistan

19th November 2020 23:00

• Interview after cash assistance ©CWS

JPF member NGO CWS Japan is implementing an emergency cash assistance project in Bamiyan, Afghanistan, for internally displaced persons (IDPS) and repatriated refugees affected by the spread of the new coronavirus.

Many IDPs and repatriated refugees living in Bamiyan have been living on unstable incomes as day laborers and the like, and due to the spread of the new coronavirus, they have lost their jobs and many have no access to food and other daily essential items. CWS supports those among the more vulnerable through its emergency cash assistance that utilizes the mobile phone system.

WVJ's Awareness Raising Activity at Camp for Refugees from Myanmar

16th November 2020 23:30

• ©WVJ

JPF member NGO World Vision Japan (WVJ) is implementing a WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) project in Bangladesh at a refugee camp for people who have fled Myanmar. The project is in support of preventing the spread of COVID-19 there.

The risk of infection in the camp is high due to inadequate WASH facilities, which are crucial to infection prevention, and WVJ is working to improve the necessary facilities and to help strengthen hygiene practices among residents. The photo shows a door-to-door awareness raising activity on infection prevention.

A woman in her thirties who participated in the awareness raising activity said that she learned about the important timing for washing her hands, and that she and her family practice hand washing when they come home. A man in his twenties also commented that his family practices proper hand washing techniques that he learned through the activity.

AAR Assisting Welfare Facility for PWDs

14th November 2020 23:00

As a JPF program, JPF member NGO Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR), is distributing supplies to persons with disabilities (PWDs) to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus and is also supporting the improvement of remote work environment for organizations for PWDs.

The number of COVID-19 cases is on the rise across Japan. There are many persons with disabilities (PWDs) who have respiratory disabilities, intractable diseases, or are on dialysis, and there are concerns about their conditions intensifying if infected with the new coronavirus. Also, hygiene items such as masks and disinfectants are essential to prevent infections when they use welfare services that involve close contact with facility staff or when they are working at sheltered workshops and other work environments, as these facilities are at higher risk for mass infection.

AAR will continue to distribute masks and disinfectants in order to reduce the risk of infection.

Vnet Assisting Welfare Facility

12th November 2020 22:30

• ©Vnet
• ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet has been implementing a project aimed at improving measures against the spread of the new coronavirus at sheltered workshops and other welfare facilities serving persons with disabilities in the northern part of Gifu Prefecture (including Takayama City, Hida City, Gero City, and Shirakawa Village). Vnet itself is physically based in the region.

Vnet delivered plexiglass anti-droplet barriers to a welfare facility that had requested them, and installed the barriers in the cafeteria and the meeting room. "Our users used to eat at different times and sit on one side of the table, but now they can eat together. Thank you so much," a facility staff remarked joyfully.

PARCIC's Domestic Meal Assistance

11th November 2020 18:00

• Beneficiaries spending time together before and after meal at children's cafeteria ©PARCIC

JPF member NGO PARC Interpeoples' Cooperation (PARCIC) is providing meal support for children and the elderly in Katsushika Ward, Tokyo.

Due to the effects of the new coronavirus, many people are facing unemployment and loss of income. Many families cut back on food costs due to financial difficulties. PARCIC has been providing meals at the children's cafeteria and distributing boxed meals. While taking careful measures against infection, they are helping children and their guardians access nutritious meals.

Vnet Assisting Welfare Facility in Takayama

10th November 2020 23:00

• ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet has been implementing a project aimed at improving measures against the spread of the new coronavirus at sheltered workshops and other welfare facilities serving persons with disabilities in the northern part of Gifu Prefecture (including Takayama City, Hida City, Gero City, and Shirakawa Village). Vnet itself is physically based in the region.

Vnet delivered the requested plexiglass anti-droplet barriers to a welfare facility in Takayama. A delighted staff member of the facility told them, "We have been worried about the coming winter season, so these are very helpful. We are truly happy!"

CWS's Cash Assistance

8th November 2020 23:00

• ©CWS

JPF member NGO CWS Japan is supporting internally displaced persons (IDPs) and repatriated refugees affected by the spread of the new coronavirus in Bamiyan, Afghanistan.

CWS is implementing an emergency cash distribution project through a mobile phone system. They are conducting interviews to assess whether beneficiaries are being properly reached and whether they are able to purchase necessities with the distributed cash. In addition to the phone interviews, CWS is also conducting in-home interviews with some households while paying the utmost attention to infection control measures.

PARCIC's Food Assistance

5th November 2020 23:30

• Children playing with each other before and after eating at the children's cafeteria ©PARCIC

JPF member NGO PARC Interpeoples' Cooperation (PARCIC) is providing meal support for children and the elderly in Katsushika Ward, Tokyo.

PARCIC, while taking precautions to carefully prevent infection, assists families experiencing financial difficulties due to the COVID-19 pandemic through providing meals in the children's cafeteria and distributing boxed meals. Some beneficiaries are worried about the uncertainties looming ahead, but eating meals together can help ease their anxiety and stress.

WVJ's WASH Assistance

3rd November 2020 23:00

• ©WVJ

JPF member NGO World Vision Japan (WVJ) is implementing a WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) project in Bangladesh at a refugee camp for people who have fled Myanmar. The project is in support of preventing the spread of COVID-19 there.

WVJ is helping displaced people take up good hygiene practices to prevent infection, both individually and as a community. WVJ is distributing hand washing supplies, handing out sanitary products especially for women and girls whose needs are not being met fully by existing support, and setting up and repairing water sanitation facilities. The photo shows them teaching people how to wash their hands properly to prevent infection.

Vnet's Infection Prevention Assistance in Japan

1st November 2020 20:00

• ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet has been implementing a project aimed at improving measures against the spread of the new coronavirus at sheltered workshops and other welfare facilities serving persons with disabilities in the northern part of Gifu Prefecture (including Takayama City, Hida City, Gero City, and Shirakawa Village). Vnet itself is physically based in the region.

Vnet delivered plexiglass anti-droplet barriers with wheels as requested by a welfare facility in Hida City. This year, an annual excursion, which the facility users looked forward to, had to be cancelled due to the pandemic. They planned on having a special lunch that includes a fun menu this year instead and noted that these anti-droplet barriers would allow them to enjoy the special meal together while facing each other. They were also pleased that they could use these barriers for both special events as well as during regular work hours.

CWS's Assistance in Afghanistan

30th October 2020 23:50

• Direct cash assistance as an exceptional measure in an area outside of the system's coverage zone ©CWS

JPF member NGO CWS Japan is implementing an emergency cash assistance project in Bamiyan, Afghanistan, for internally displaced persons (IDPS) and repatriated refugees affected by the spread of the new coronavirus.

In Afghanistan, there is a chronic shortage of food. CWS distributes cash to socio-economically vulnerable IDPs and repatriated refugees, mainly those who have lost their livelihoods due to the spread of the new coronavirus and are suffering further deprivation. The assistance is aimed at helping them secure food and other daily necessities. Each beneficiary receives the cash assistance via their mobile phone system.

PARCIC Supporting Needy Families with Nutritious Meals

27th October 2020 22:41

• ©PARCIC

JPF member NGO PARC Interpeoples’ Cooperation (PARCIC) is providing meal support for children and the elderly in Katsushika Ward, Tokyo.

There are many families who are experiencing financial difficulties due to the impact of the new coronavirus pandemic, and they have no other means of getting by except through cutting back on what they spend on food. As a result, many of them are not able to provide their children with nutritious meals. PARCIC provides meals and distributes boxed lunches at their children’s cafeteria in the Shiratori district of Katsushika-ku, Tokyo, so that both the children and their parents can enjoy nutritious meals.

WVJ’s Assistance at Camp for Refugees from Myanmar

25th October 2020 23:00

• ©WVJ

JPF member NGO World Vision Japan (WVJ) is implementing a WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) project in Bangladesh at a refugee camp for people who have fled Myanmar. The project is in support of preventing the spread of COVID-19 there.

WVJ is hosting infection prevention awareness sessions. For the sake of infection prevention, the maximum number of participants per session is 5. Physical distance (social distance) between participants is ensured for each session. To date, more than 1,600 people have participated in the sessions.

A woman in her 60s who attended the session said, "Through WV’s awareness session, I was able to learn about the crucial timing for washing hands and how I can protect myself from COVID-19 infection. I would like to share this with my children and my family and tell them how to prevent infection."

AAR Beginning Assistance at Refugee Settlement in Uganda

23rd October 2020 23:00

JPF member NGO Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR), has begun its assistance project at a refugee settlement in western Uganda for refugees from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to prevent the spread of COVID-19 there.

According to the Ministry of Health of Uganda, more than 10,000 cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in the country as of 23 October. However, residents in the DRC refugee settlements do not have sufficient hygiene items or knowledge to prevent infections. AAR will distribute hygiene item packages and conduct awareness-raising activities in accordance with the Ugandan Ministry of Health's COVID-19 control measures.

Vnet Delivering Prevention Infection Equipment to Welfare Facility in Japan

21st October 2020 23:00

• ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet has been implementing a project aimed at improving measures against the spread of the new coronavirus at sheltered workshops and other welfare facilities serving persons with disabilities in the northern part of Gifu Prefecture (including Takayama City, Hida City, Gero City, and Shirakawa Village). Vnet itself is physically based in the region.

Vnet delivered plexiglass anti-droplet barriers to a welfare facility in Hida City. “Our users look forward to mealtime, but they have had to eat without even being able to see each other’s faces. But now they can sit facing each other when they eat, so they will certainly be able to enjoy their meals more,” said one staff with delight. Vnet will continue to provide support for infection control in the region.

CWS’s Cash Assistance Project

19th October 2020 23:00

• Distributing SIMs for cash assistance ©CWS

JPF member NGO CWS Japan is implementing an emergency cash assistance project in Bamiyan, Afghanistan, for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and repatriated refugees affected by the spread of the new coronavirus.

CWS has begun a system of assistance where beneficiaries receive cash through their mobile phones. This cash assistance will enable the socio-economically vulnerable persons to secure everyday necessities including food.

WVJ’s WASH Project in a Refugee Camp for People Who Have Fled Myanmar

18th October 2020 7:00

• Monitoring the toilets ©WVJ

JPF member NGO World Vision Japan (WVJ) is implementing a WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) project in Bangladesh at a refugee camp for people who have fled Myanmar. The project is in support of preventing the spread of COVID-19 there.

In Bangladesh, the first COVID-19 case was confirmed in March this year. Since then, there have been cases confirmed in the refugee camp for displaced people from Myanmar. Since the camp does not have sufficient water and sanitation facilities, which are vital for preventing infection, there has been a need to improve the facilities and to strengthen hygiene practices among the residents. As part of their assistance project, WVJ is installing common hand washing stations, repairing deep wells, and pumping toilet waste.

Vnet's Needs Assessment at Welfare Facility

15th October 2020 23:00

• ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet has been implementing a project aimed at improving measures against the spread of the new coronavirus at sheltered workshops and other welfare facilities serving persons with disabilities in the northern part of Gifu Prefecture (including Takayama City, Hida City, Gero City, and Shirakawa Village). Vnet itself is physically based in the region.

Last week, Vnet conducted an interview at a welfare facility in Takayama City on the facility's needs for infection control measures. The facility was considering implementing countermeasures for the break room, so Vnet advised them on the use of anti-droplet barriers and confirmed the size and number of barriers needed by using samples.

Each of the plexiglass anti-droplet barriers distributed by Vnet will be carefully made one by one. Vnet will continue to provide support for these facilities so that their users can be safe and feel at ease.

GNJP Assisting Single-Parent Households in Japan

13th October 2020 23:00

• ©GNJP

As part of the JPF program, JPF member NGO Good Neighbors Japan (GNJP) is currently implementing a relief project to provide food and other items to single-parent households in Tokyo and three surrounding prefectures.

GNJP has been distributing food and hygiene items to single-parent families facing financial hardships due to the spread of the new coronavirus, so that they can improve and support the health and living conditions of parents and children.

The photo shows the food and hygiene items that have been delivered to the homes of beneficiaries. In September, GNJP delivered assistance to more than 490 families. GNJP will continue to support single-parent families in order to prevent their isolation and to give them hope and energy for the future.

CWS Assisting IDPs and Repatriated Refugees in Afghanistan

11th October 2020 20:00

• ©CWS

JPF member NGO CWS Japan is implementing an emergency cash assistance project in Bamiyan, Afghanistan, for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and repatriated refugees affected by the spread of the new coronavirus.

The aim of the project is to help socio-economically vulnerable low-income households, mainly IDPS and repatriated refugees, within Afghanistan so that they can secure essential daily necessities including food through this cash assistance.

As part of this project, CWS also conducts awareness-raising sessions on COVID-19 infection prevention for the beneficiaries. The sessions are held with participants divided into small groups and preventive measures taken.

Vnet's Assistance for Facility in Hida City

7th October 2020 23:00

• ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet has been implementing a project aimed at improving measures against the spread of the new coronavirus at sheltered workshops and other welfare facilities serving persons with disabilities in the northern part of Gifu Prefecture (including Takayama City, Hida City, Gero City, and Shirakawa Village). Vnet itself is physically based in the region.

This week, Vnet provided plexiglass anti-droplet barriers to a welfare facility in Hida City. Initially, the facility wanted to just change the positions of the tables to better prevent infections, but found it difficult to do so because of the need for lighting. So, Vnet installed these barriers so that they could work safely without having to move the tables around.

WVJ Raising Awareness for Infection Prevention at Camp for Refugees from Myanmar

10th October 2020 22:00

• ©WVJ

JPF member NGO World Vision Japan (WVJ) is implementing a WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) project in Bangladesh at a refugee camp for people who have fled Myanmar. The project is in support of preventing the spread of COVID-19 there.

WVJ's awareness raising sessions on infection prevention are conducted with a maximum of five participants per session to ensure physical distance (social distance) among participants to prevent infection. Up to early October, more than 240 sessions have been held and more than 1,160 people have participated in the sessions.

Participants said that awareness of effective hygiene habits has been raised among the refugees thanks to these sessions as well as door-to-door visits by WVJ staff. They also expressed concerns over the difficulty of continuing to wear masks in the hot weather and the current situation having no end in sight.

2HJ Completed Project

5th October 2020 22:00

At the end of September, JPF member NGO Second Harvest Japan (2HJ) completed its food assistance project for the needy people whose livelihoods were affected by the new coronavirus (COVID-19), which had been implemented as a JPF program since June.

Through food assistance, 2HJ has worked to help alleviate the financial burdens and psychological toll among numerous single-parent families and non-permanent workers affected by the pandemic. At food pantries in Tokyo, Saitama, and Kanagawa prefectures, food assistance was provided to over 8,900 households, exceeding the original plan of serving 6,000 households. Although the JPF program ended at the end of last month, 2HJ will continue to provide food assistance in the weeks and months to come.

AAR Distributing Anti-Infection Supplies

3rd October 2020 10:00

• Alcohol-based disinfectant distributed to a facility and used at its entrance (Photo taken in July) ©AAR

As a JPF program, JPF member NGO Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR), is distributing supplies to persons with disabilities (PWDs) to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus and is also supporting the improvement of remote work environment for organizations for PWDs.

AAR distributes infection prevention supplies to patients with kidney disease and to welfare facilities serving PWDs. Patients with kidney disease are at higher risk of their conditions intensifying when they have COVID-19, but they cannot avoid going to healthcare facilities because they must receive dialysis. Welfare facilities serving PWDs are also at a higher risk for mass infection outbreaks. AAR will continue to distribute masks and disinfectants in order to reduce the risk of infection.

CWS’s Cash Assistance Project

1st October 2020 20:00

• ©CWS

JPF member NGO CWS Japan is implementing an emergency cash assistance project in Bamiyan, Afghanistan, for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and repatriated refugees affected by the spread of the new coronavirus.

CWS supports socioeconomically vulnerable persons in Afghanistan, mainly IDPs and repatriated refugees, through cash assistance. They distribute cash so that the beneficiaries can secure daily necessities, including food. The first distribution was held at the end of September, and 105 households received the assistance. This includes families whose heads of households have lost their day laborer jobs and those who are surviving through negative coping strategies such as selling their house and land.

AAR Supporting Welfare Facilities for Persons with Disabilities in Japan

29th September 2020 20:00

• ©AAR

As a JPF program, JPF member NGO Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR), is distributing supplies to persons with disabilities (PWDs) to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus and is also supporting the improvement of remote work environment for organizations for PWDs.

There is not yet an end in sight for the spread of the new coronavirus, and AAR has been providing support to prevent its spread among welfare facilities for PWDs, including through distribution of infection prevention supplies. This photo shows a thermometer that was distributed to one such facility. It is used by the facility users to check their temperature every day.

Vnet Delivering Anti-Droplet Barriers

27th September 2020 23:00

• ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet has been implementing a project aimed at improving measures against the spread of the new coronavirus at sheltered workshops and other welfare facilities serving persons with disabilities in the northern part of Gifu Prefecture (including Takayama City, Hida City, Gero City, and Shirakawa Village). Vnet itself is physically based in the region.

Today, Vnet delivered the requested anti-droplet barriers to a facility in Takayama. Seeing the highly transparent plexiglass for the first time, the beneficiaries remarked joyfully, “It’s great that they’re so clear; they won’t come in the way of our work!” People use the meeting room for a long period of time, so they were especially happy with the new installments in that room, saying, “Now, we can talk to each other to our heart’s content without worrying about infections.”

WVJ's Coronavirus Awareness Raising Sessions

24th September 2020 22:00

• Training for volunteer staff ©WVJ

JPF member NGO World Vision Japan (WVJ) is implementing a WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) project in Bangladesh at a refugee camp for people who have fled Myanmar. The project is in support of preventing the spread of COVID-19 there.

In specific, WVJ is conducting awareness raising sessions on infection prevention as part of this project. The sessions are facilitated by public health officers and public health improvement volunteers who have completed training on the new coronavirus infections and preventions.

To prevent infections at the sessions, the maximum number of participants per session is set to five, making sure that there is enough distance between participants. By late September, more than 160 sessions have been held, with nearly 780 people participating in total. Currently, the sessions specifically target community leaders and women, but plans are in place for future sessions aiming at children with disabilities, their parents, and other children.

CWS Providing Assistance in Afghanistan

22nd September 2020 20:00

• Interviewing a beneficiary about her living conditions ©CWS

JPF member NGO CWS Japan is implementing an emergency cash assistance project in Bamiyan, Afghanistan, for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and repatriated refugees affected by the spread of the new coronavirus.

CWS is providing assistance to poor households of mainly IDPs and repatriated refugees in Afghanistan who are socially and economically vulnerable, having had their livelihoods severely affected by the pandemic. By distributing cash to secure food and other daily necessities, CWS will prevent further deterioration of the food crisis among these families and support them as they rebuild their lives.

Vnet Assisting Welfare Facilities for Persons with Disabilities

20th September 2020 5:00

• ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet has been implementing a project aimed at improving measures against the spread of the new coronavirus at sheltered workshops and other welfare facilities serving persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the northern part of Gifu Prefecture (including Takayama City, Hida City, Gero City, and Shirakawa Village). Vnet itself is physically based in the region.

Recently, plexiglass anti-droplet barriers were installed in the meeting room within a welfare facility. Other spaces in this facility had already had these barriers installed, but none had been set up in this particular room, so Vnet installed them upon request. Now, facility users and their families can talk with each other a lot more safely.

WVJ’s Awareness Raising Activity

18th September 2020 23:30

• ©WVJ

JPF member NGO World Vision Japan (WVJ) is implementing a WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) project in Bangladesh at a refugee camp for people who have fled Myanmar. The project is in support of preventing the spread of COVID-19 there.

As part of this project, WVJ has been going door-to-door to raise awareness about the new coronavirus. The photo shows a demonstration of proper hand washing. Living in this COVID-19 pandemic, many in the refugee camp realized again that handwashing and other hygiene practices are indeed important. You can see that this particular boy is focused and listening so intently!

Vnet’s Anti-Infection Measures for Beneficiary’s Vehicle

16th September 2020 15:12

• ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet has been implementing a project aimed at improving measures against the spread of the new coronavirus at sheltered workshops and other welfare facilities serving persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the northern part of Gifu Prefecture (including Takayama City, Hida City, Gero City, and Shirakawa Village). Vnet itself is physically based in the region.

Vnet installed plastic sheets to block the second and third rows of the van used by a welfare facility to transport people to and from the facility. They devised and created this when the facility asked them if there was anything to be done to reduce the risk of infection when people sitting in the van ends up talking loudly with each other. It was simple to make and is easy to maintain, and the facility users and staff alike were pleased with the product.

CWS's Infectious Disease Prevention Awareness Session

14th September 2020 6:00

• ©CWS

JPF member NGO CWS Japan is implementing an emergency cash assistance project in Bamiyan, Afghanistan, for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and repatriated refugees affected by the spread of the new coronavirus.

As part of the project, CWS organized awareness-raising sessions on prevention of infectious diseases, including a lecture on the possible routes of transmission of the new coronavirus and basic preventive measures. Divided into several separate sessions while maintaining physical (social) distancing, there were a total of more than 100 men and women from the targeted beneficiary community in attendance.

Vnet’s Support for Welfare Facilities

12th September 2020 23:00

• ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet has been implementing a project aimed at improving measures against the spread of the new coronavirus at sheltered workshops and other welfare facilities serving persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the northern part of Gifu Prefecture (including Takayama City, Hida City, Gero City, and Shirakawa Village). Vnet itself is physically based in the region.

Vnet created and delivered anti-droplet plexiglass barriers to these welfare facilities in order to promote infection prevention among PWDs, their families, and facility staff, and to control the occurrence of infection clusters. “Wow! They look nice!” were comments from the facility users who were happy with these deliveries.

2HJ Providing Food Assistance to More than 5,300 Households

10th September 2020 16:01

• ©2HJ

JPF member NGO Second Harvest Japan (2HJ) is currently implementing a food assistance project for the needy people whose livelihoods were affected by the new coronavirus (COVID-19).

Through food assistance, this project is designed to alleviate the financial burdens and psychological toll among single-parent families and non-permanent workers affected by the pandemic. As of the end of August, 2HJ has provided food assistance to more than 5,300 households through pantries in Tokyo, Saitama, and Kanagawa prefectures. They will continue to provide support while simultaneously carefully preventing infection.

CWS Providing Assistance in Afghanistan

8th September 2020 23:00

• ©CWS

JPF member NGO CWS Japan is implementing an emergency cash assistance project in Bamiyan, Afghanistan, for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and repatriated refugees affected by the spread of the new coronavirus.

CWS has conducted a survey on community conditions and food security in the beneficiary communities, looking at changes in income and means of livelihood for each household under the impact of the new coronavirus. The survey will help them reach those who are more vulnerable.

GNJP Distributing Food and Other Relief Items in Japan

6th September 2020 10:00

• ©GNJP
• ©GNJP

As a JPF grant project, JPF member NGO Good Neighbors Japan (GNJP) is currently implementing a relief project to provide food and other items to single-parent households in Tokyo and three surrounding prefectures.

GNJP has been distributing food and hygiene items to needy single-parent families in Tokyo, Kanagawa, Saitama, and Chiba prefectures, where the effects of the pandemic have been particularly severe in Japan. In August, they sent food to more than 300 families. GNJP is in the process of procuring more food and hygiene products for future shipments.

PWJ's Assistance in Camps for People Fleeing Myanmar

4th September 2020 23:00

• ©PWJ
• ©PWJ
• ©PWJ

On 25 August 2017, hundreds of thousands of people who were persecuted in Myanmar began to flee to Bangladesh. More than three years later, some 860,000 people are still displaced and living in one of the world's largest refugee camps in Cox's Bazar District, Bangladesh. Risks are high for the new coronavirus to rapidly spread in the densely populated camps for people who have fled Myanmar, as the health care system is lacking there. This puts the camp residents in an even more vulnerable position.

As a JPF grant project, JPF member Peace Winds Japan (PWJ) has been implementing a project in Cox’s Bazar to improve the COVID-19 prevention efforts among the people who have fled Myanmar, the residents in the host communities, and the healthcare clinics in the refugee camp.

Starting in around March 2020, entry into refugee camps, even by humanitarian workers, had to be suspended except when providing life-sustaining assistance in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19 infections. PWJ has been supporting health activities in the refugee camps, and maternal and child health care in particular; these activities need to be continued even during the spread of the pandemic. Therefore, PWJ has continued to support awareness-raising activities on maternal and child health by visiting individual families instead of gathering beneficiaries in one place, and by taking careful preventive measures.
Additionally, they have implemented awareness-raising activities to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus, including leaflet distributions, household visits, soap distributions to households without them, and PPE distribution to clinics.

In the refugee camp where information from the outside is limited, untrue statements and rumors are sometimes spread out of nowhere, such as "The new coronavirus does not actually exist, but is simply a lie by the Bangladeshi government to get the refugees out of their country," or "The refugees will not become seriously ill even if they get infected with the new coronavirus.” The key to fighting the virus is in spreading accurate knowledge about the new coronavirus and about preventive measures so that people do not lose their motivation to take appropriate precautions.

REALs Distributing Supplies and Awareness Leaflets to Prevent Infection

3rd September 2020 22:00

• Relief items placed with social distancing in mind and women beneficiaries ©REALs
• A beneficiary woman receiving the leaflet ©REALs

As a JPF grant project, JPF member NGO Reach Alternatives (REALs) is implementing a non-food item (NFI) distribution and awareness-raising project to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus among internally displaced persons (IDPS) in South Sudan.

Approximately 2,200 displaced households live in South Sudan’s Mangaten Camp for IDPs, but with poor WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) conditions, they are at risk of COVID-19 infection. REALs is distributing buckets with taps, soap, disinfectants, water purification tablets, and masks, along with educational leaflets to raise awareness among the residents.

Distribution of these items is carried out in consideration of physical (social) distancing. For example, the relief items are placed at a certain distance from each other to prevent the spread of the virus. In addition, specialists in combating the new coronavirus are also present at the distribution site, and they provide guidance and supervision on infection prevention.

*NFIs: Non-food items. This includes hygiene items and other daily essential items.

Vnet Creating Anti-Infection Plexiglass Barriers

1st September 2020 22:30

• ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet has been implementing a project aimed at improving measures against the spread of the new coronavirus at sheltered workshops and other welfare facilities serving persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the northern part of Gifu Prefecture (including Takayama City, Hida City, Gero City, and Shirakawa Village). Vnet itself is physically based in the region.

Vnet has been busily preparing anti-infection items (plexiglass barriers) to be delivered to several facilities tomorrow, as they cut the plexiglass, chamfer (slightly round the corners), and attach the legs. Vnet hopes to protect the workers and users of these facilities through delivering these anti-droplet barriers.

AAR’s Relief Activity in Japan

30th August 2020 23:00

As a JPF grant project, JPF member NGO Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR), is implementing its project involving distribution of hygiene items and improvement of remote work environment for organizations for persons with disabilities.

With concern for the resurgence in infections due to the second wave of the pandemic in Japan, AAR supports the prevention of the spread of COVID-19 among kidney disease patients, who are at higher risk of conditions intensifying if infected but also must regularly go to medical facilities for dialysis, as well as  among welfare facilities for persons with disabilities. As part of this effort, AAR is working with the prefectural offices of the Association of Kidney Disease Patients in distributing masks to the patients' associations and individual members in each city, town, or village.

2HJ’s Domestic Food Assistance during the COVID-19 Pandemic

28th August 2020 23:00

• ©2HJ

JPF member NGO Second Harvest Japan (2HJ) is currently implementing a food assistance project for people whose livelihoods were affected by the new coronavirus (COVID-19).

From the beginning of June until 9 August, 2HJ has provided food to 3,649 families through pantries in Tokyo, Saitama, and Kanagawa. Through food assistance, the objective is to help alleviate the financial burdens and psychological toll among single-parent families and non-permanent workers affected by the pandemic. Beneficiaries of this project are asked to present food assistance information documents issued during livelihood consultation services at prefectural and other municipal governments in Tokyo, Saitama, and Kanagawa prefectures as well as at Social Welfare Councils. 2HJ will be working to serve these families as they expect to reach 6,000 households by the end of September when the project term comes to an end.

PARCIC’s Food Assistance

26th August 2020 7:00

• ©PARCIC

JPF member NGO PARC Interpeoples’ Cooperation (PARCIC) is providing meal support for children and the elderly in Katsushika Ward, Tokyo.

Right now, there are no requests to use the children’s cafeteria due to the children being on summer break from school, but PARCIC distributed boxed lunches and groceries to those in need as well as accepted food donations to the cafeteria. They are preparing for the children to return to the cafeteria after their break ends, so that they can enjoy full meals.

2HJ's Food Assistance

23rd August 2020 22:00

• ©2HJ

JPF member NGO Second Harvest Japan (2HJ) is currently implementing a food assistance project for people whose livelihoods were affected by the new coronavirus (COVID-19).

2HJ has provided food to more than 3,600 families at their food pantry locations so far. Through provision of food, 2HJ will help alleviate the financial burdens and psychological toll from those who have lost their jobs or suffered a loss of income due to the effects of the pandemic.

JPF Interviewed by NHK WORLD JAPAN Radio

21st August 2020 17:30

• Receiving emergency relief items as part of JPF’s Coronavirus (COVID-19) Emergency Response ©PWJ

On 16 August, Yuko Shibata, General Manager of JPF’s Emergency Response Division, was interviewed on NHK WORLD JAPAN’s radio program in Russian. In the interview, General Manager Shibata talked about the current state of JPF's coronavirus (COVID-19) emergency response and emergency response to July 2020 floods.

JPF's coronavirus response focuses on vulnerable populations both in Japan and overseas as we provide assistance to those in need. In Japan, this includes children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities, while our projects overseas assist people in need in areas that had already been experiencing humanitarian crises so that the spread of infection and its impact can be better controlled. In addition, we are also providing assistance for those affected by the torrential rain and subsequent flooding that occurred in Kyushu and other parts of Japan in July 2020. Our projects are in response to local needs and requests and are implemented with utmost care and consideration to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus.

The radio broadcast is in Russian, but it will be available until 16 August 2021.

Listen at the NHK WORLD JAPAN Radio’s Russian website here: https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/ru/radio/listener/202008160600/

Thank You, Tokyo Gas: Paccho Point Donation Ceremony

19th August 2020 17:06

• 

Since May this year, Tokyo Gas Co., Ltd., has designated JPF’s Coronavirus (COVID-19) Emergency Response as one of the recipients of their Paccho Points donation program. Paccho Point is a service for their clients to accumulate points on the myTOKYOGAS membership website.

On 30 July, a donation ceremony was held at JPF's Kojimachi office. Together with matching contributions from Tokyo Gas, we have received donations for this cause from many people through this campaign. We are truly thankful for your generosity.

Donations to JPF through these Paccho Points will be used to deliver assistance to people in vulnerable situations and in need of support within Japan, such as to eldercare facilities and facilities for persons with disabilities, as well as to the needy who have been affected by the pandemic. Tokyo Gas has graciously extended this donation campaign term until early March 2021 (as planned for now). We look forward to your support!

Campaign Term:
From 27 May 2020 to early March 2021 (planned)

How to Donate:
You can donate using your Paccho Points. The points are cashed in and matched by Tokyo Gas for the donation.

Number of Units:
A minimum of 100 points (1 point = 1 yen) required to donate.

Visit the Tokyo Gas website here for more details: https://members.tokyo-gas.co.jp/services/point/tsukau.html#use-for-donation

Vnet Assisting Welfare Facilities with Infection Control

18th August 2020 23:00

• ©Vnet
• ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet has been implementing a project aimed at improving measures against the spread of the new coronavirus at sheltered workshops and other welfare facilities serving persons with disabilities in the northern part of Gifu Prefecture (including Takayama City, Hida City, Gero City, and Shirakawa Village). Vnet itself is physically based in the region.

Vnet has almost completed the production of a new batch of plexiglass anti-droplet barriers that they had made and distributed at the request of welfare facilities the other day. They plan to deliver these to other welfare facilities in the near future. Vnet will continue to support persons with disabilities, their families, and the staff at the facilities to prevent infection.

GNJP Distributing Food and Other Relief Items to Single-Parent Households

16th August 2020 7:00

As a JPF grant project, JPF member NGO Good Neighbors Japan (GNJP) has begun a relief project to provide food and other items to single-parent households in Tokyo and three surrounding prefectures.

GNJP will distribute food and hygiene items to needy single-parent families in Tokyo, Kanagawa, Saitama and Chiba prefectures, where the effects of the pandemic are particularly severe in Japan. Through this relief project, GNJP will improve and support the health and living conditions of parents and children through a focus on food, which is essential to people’s daily lives and to the growth of children. Currently, GNJP is in the process of procuring food and other items to be delivered later this month.

Vnet Delivers Anti-Droplet Barriers to Welfare Facilities for Persons with Disabilities

14th August 2020 20:00

• ©Vnet
• ©Vnet
• ©Vnet
• ©Vnet

JPF member NGO Vnet has been implementing a project aimed at improving measures against the spread of the new coronavirus at sheltered workshops and other welfare facilities serving persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the northern part of Gifu Prefecture (including Takayama City, Hida City, Gero City, and Shirakawa Village). Vnet itself is physically based in the region.

Vnet has been creating the barriers that guard people against the spread of droplets at the request of these facilities so that they can promote infection prevention among PWDs, their families, and facility staff, and reduce the occurrence of infection clusters. The other day, Vnet delivered some of these items to the facilities, and they were received by staff who were pleased with them. Vnet will continue to create and to distribute more of them.

PARCIC Providing Meals to Children and the Elderly in Japan

12th August 2020 21:00

JPF member NGO PARC Interpeoples’ Cooperation (PARCIC) has begun providing meal support for children and the elderly in Katsushika Ward, Tokyo.

PARCIC will provide groceries as well as boxed lunches and hot meals at the children's cafeteria Mincafe that it operates in Katsushika Ward, Tokyo, targeting children from single-parent households where adults have lost their jobs or had reduced incomes due to the spread of the new coronavirus. Simultaneously, PARCIC will distribute donated groceries to households in need through the 11 children's cafeterias in the ward.

First and foremost, to let more people know about the children’s cafeteria, PARCIC has prepared an information leaflet and distributed it to schools in the neighborhood. They will continue to provide meal support to many more people, including children and their guardians as well as the elderly.

Vnet Assisting Welfare Facilities for Persons with Disabilities in Gifu

10th August 2020 20:00

JPF member NGO Vnet has begun a project aimed at improving measures against the spread of the new coronavirus at sheltered workshops and other welfare facilities serving persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the northern part of Gifu Prefecture (including Takayama City, Hida City, Gero City, and Shirakawa Village). Vnet itself is physically based in the region.

The number of departments in general hospitals in this region has decreased over the years, and the healthcare system has become vulnerable. Meanwhile, at these welfare facilities serving PWDs, people cannot avoid working in close quarters due to the nature of their work but also especially since many facilities do not have the space for physical (social) distancing. Furthermore, many such facilities cannot afford to purchase anti-droplet barriers to prevent the spread of infection.

In order to assist these welfare facilities in the targeted region, Vnet will partner with infectious disease specialists as they provide advice on infection control measures as well as install anti-droplet barriers, distribute necessary materials, and promote infection control measures with PWDs, their families, and facility staff to prevent the occurrence of infection clusters.

WVJ Providing Emergency Response to New Coronavirus in Refugee Camp for People Who Have Fled Myanmar

7th August 2020 7:00

JPF is implementing a WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) project by member NGO World Vision Japan (WVJ) in Bangladesh at a refugee camp for people who have fled Myanmar. The project is in support of preventing the spread of COVID-19 there.

The refugee camp in Cox's Bazar district is the world's largest refugee settlement. Although no cases of infection have been confirmed yet in Camp 19, which is the site of WVJ's project, there is an urgent need to prevent the spread of the pandemic. WVJ plans to provide soap, menstrual products, and other items to the residents while ensuring that the residents have access to sanitation facilities. WVJ also conducted an orientation on new coronavirus infection for locally hired staff as part of its efforts to educate the refugees on infection prevention measures.

*At JPF, we use the term “people fleeing (or people who have fled) Myanmar” instead of “Rohingya” to be considerate of the ethnic backgrounds and diversity among those who have fled Myanmar.

New Projects in Japan Started by Member NGOs

5th August 2020 22:00

There are no signs of the end of the pandemic, and JPF has begun new projects in Japan by Vnet as well as by PARC Interpeople’s Cooperation (PARCIC) and Good Neighbors Japan (GNJP). Their projects entail support for welfare facilities serving people with disabilities in Japan to counter the spread of the new coronavirus, meal assistance for children and the elderly in Katsushika Ward, Tokyo, and provision of food and other relief items for single-parent households in Tokyo and three surrounding prefectures. We will provide support for the vulnerable in this pandemic.

CWS Providing Assistance in Afghanistan

2nd August 2020 22:00

JPF member NGO CWS Japan is implementing an emergency cash assistance project in Bamiyan, Afghanistan, for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and repatriated refugees affected by the spread of the new coronavirus.

The economic impact of COVID-19 on the already vulnerable populations is immense. This is especially true for IDPs and repatriated refugees who work as day laborers. Restrictions on movement have resulted in loss of income for them, and with restrictions on access to markets and soaring prices, their livelihood has been in great peril.

With no end in sight for COVID-19 in Afghanistan, it remains urgent to support the vulnerable populations within Afghanistan, and CWS Japan will continue to assist them.

CWS Japan Newsletter No.46: https://www.cwsjapan.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Newsletter-no.-46.pdf

REALs Distributing Water Tanks to Support Infection Prevention

31st July 2020 21:00

As a JPF grant project, JPF member NGO Reach Alternavies (REALs) is providing assistance for IDPs in South Sudan through distribution of NFIs (non-food items) and awareness raising for preventing coronavirus infection. As the Mangaten Camp for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in South Sudan suffers from unsanitary and unhygienic conditions, the residents are living there with high risk of COVID-19 infection.

As borders had to be closed due to COVID-19, procurement of other items have been delayed, but REALs decided to distribute the already procured water and water tanks to their beneficiaries at the camp. Keeping appropriate distances, REALs will distribute two 20 liter water tanks filled with water to each household.

*NFIs include hygiene items and other essential daily items.

【Webinar: Tomorrow on 29th July】～CSO role and its sustainability in new normal age～

28th July 2020 20:00

The society is rapidly changing with Coronavirus pandemic.
What specific adjustments do CSOs (civil society organizations) need to make in this new normal?
What are the specific challenges for humanitarian works in a COVID-19 era?

Tomorrow, on 29 July, a webinar, “How CSO Adapts Its Humanitarian Work towards the New Normal Age” is going to be held by Human Initiative (HI), Humanitarian Forum Indonesia (HFI), Asian Disaster Reduction and Response(ADRRN) and International Council on Voluntary Agency (ICVA) in collaboration with Asian and the Pacific CSOs and CSO networks.

Along with other NGOs from Bangladesh, China, Indonesia, the Pacific region and so on, JPF Co-Chairperson and General Secretary of ADRRN, Takeshi Komino, will be a moderator and Yuko Shibata, JPF Emergency Response General Manager, will join as a speaker.

Please come join us on the webinar from Zoom, Facebook and YouTube ☻

Date and Time: Wednesday, July 29, 2020 3-5PM (Japan time)
Language: English

For details click here:
https://bit.ly/WebinarIntl

AAR Implementing Assistance in Japan

26th July 2020 6:00

As a JPF grant project, JPF member NGO Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR) is implementing its domestic project involving distribution of hygiene items and improvement of remote work environment for organizations for persons with disabilities.

While there are concerns about the second wave of the pandemic resulting in more infections, preventive items have still not gone around to all who are in need. There are concerns about the spread of infection especially among kidney disease patients and welfare facilities for persons with disabilities.

AAR has distributed hygiene items to kidney disease patients, who are at a higher risk of becoming seriously ill from COVID-19 but cannot avoid going to healthcare facilities to receive dialysis, as well as to welfare facilities for persons with disabilities, which are concerned about cluster outbreaks. AAR will continue to help reduce the risk of infection from new coronavirus infections among these high-risk groups.

REALs’ Assistance in South Sudan

24th July 2020 6:00

In the Mangaten Camp for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in South Sudan, around 11,000 people (or about 2,200 households) are living in unsanitary and unhygienic conditions, lacking support from the international community, and are vulnerable to the risks of COVID-19 infection.

As a JPF grant project, JPF member NGO Reach Alternavies (REALs) is providing assistance for IDPs in South Sudan through distribution of NFIs (non-food items) and awareness raising for preventing coronavirus infection. In addition to English, REALs has created leaflets in the Nuer language as the majority in Mangaten are the Nuer people.

*NFIs include hygiene items and other essential daily items.

2HJ Engaging in Food Assistance in Japan

20th July 2020 6:00

JPF member NGO Second Harvest Japan (2HJ) is implementing its food assistance project for people in need who have been affected by the spread of the new coronavirus. Due to the pandemic, people’s lives are at risk as they have lost their jobs or suffered loss of income. Through provision of food to those in need, 2HJ will continue to help alleviate economic and psychological burdens. At each of 2HJ’s food pantries, they have already provided food assistance to over 1,600 households, and they plan on impacting more families.

CWS Began a New Project in Afghanistan

18th July 2020 22:00

JPF member NGO CWS Japan has begun a new project in Bamiyan, Afghanistan, for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and repatriated refugees affected by the spread of the new coronavirus. Specifically, CWS Japan is providing emergency cash assistance for those in need.

Afghanistan has already been experiencing multiple humanitarian crises due to conflict, poverty, and drought, but the spread of the coronavirus has had great economic impact on the vulnerable populations. Many IDPs and repatriated refugees work as day laborers, and their livelihood has been in peril due to restrictions on movement. They have lost access to their workplaces and consequently have had to grapple with loss of income. We are seeing an increase in the number of children going out to beg for food in the markets after their families have suffered the loss of income. Receiving food donations from strangers passing by on the street places these children at very high risk of infection, which, in turn, furthers the risk of them returning to their own communities and spreading the infection to their families and others community members.

CWS Japan will help prevent the worsening of food insecurity among vulnerable people as they support these people on the path to rebuilding healthy lives and livelihoods.

WVJ Beginning New Project in Refugee Camp for People Who Have Fled Myanmar

17th July 2020 22:53

JPF will begin a new project in Bangladesh at a refugee camp for people who have fled Myanmar. New member NGO World Vision Japan (WVJ) will be implementing a WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) project to prevent the spread of COVID-19 there.

The refugee camp in Cox’s Bazar, a district in southeastern Bangladesh, is the world’s largest and most densely populated settlement for refugees. The conditions put the camp at high risk of an infection surge. WVJ will be supporting the prevention efforts there through placing handwashing facilities, distributing soap and feminine hygiene products, and through repairing, maintaining, and managing wells and WASH facilities such as toilets. They will also be conducting awareness raising activities on infection prevention.

*At JPF, we use the term “people fleeing Myanmar” instead of “Rohingya” to be considerate of the ethnic backgrounds and diversity among those who have fled Myanmar.

New Domestic and Overseas Projects Begin

16th July 2020 22:00

Japan has seen an increase in COVID-19 cases, and at JPF, a new member NGO is starting a relief project for eldercare facilities in Japan to help them strengthen their infection prevention capacities. Also, another JPF member NGO has begun its emergency cash assistance for internally displaced persons and repatriated refugees in Bamiyan, Afghanistan, who have been affected by the spread of the coronavirus. Our projects support the vulnerable populations within Japan as well as attempt to prevent the conditions in regions of the world with existing humanitarian crisis from deteriorating any further.

AAR Distributing Hygiene Items and Improving Remote Work Environment for Organizations for Persons with Disabilities

14th July 2020 7:00

• Receiving relief items ©AAR
• Masks are a must while working in welfare facilities ©AAR
• Information communication devices are used for communication within the facility ©AAR

As a JPF grant project, JPF member NGO Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR) is implementing its domestic project involving distribution of hygiene items and improvement of remote work environment for organizations for peoples with disabilities.

Welfare facilities provide necessary services for persons with disabilities. As a facility where many users gather together and where the physical contact between facility users and staff cannot be avoided, there are concerns about the spread of the new coronavirus (COVID-19). AAR has distributed hygiene items such as masks, disposable gloves, and disinfectants to organizations for persons with disabilities, welfare facilities, and hospitals within Japan.

A staff person at one welfare facility has said, “We are now gradually seeing masks sold in stores, but welfare facilities for persons with disabilities are still struggling to secure sufficient supply. [...] We continue to do our work with a firm resolve that we will not have anyone lack a place to go to and that not a single person’s life should be lost.”

AAR has also been supporting these organizations introduce information communication devices and services to their facilities. For example, among people with hearing impairment, some are spending their days anxiously as they have lost opportunities to communicate face to face due to the restrictions on movement during the past months. AAR has assisted them with equipment so that these people can communicate remotely with sign language. AAR has also provided information communication devices necessary for remote work and online meetings for the staff, so that they can continue to operate the facilities’ services while taking precautions against the spread of infections.

For more details on their project, please visit AAR’s website here: https://www.aarjapan.gr.jp/activity/report/2020/0709_2996.html

Impact of COVID-19 in Afghanistan: SVA’s assistance activity

12th July 2020 7:00

• ©SVA
• ©SVA
• ©SVA
• ©SVA

As a JPF grant project, JPF member NGO Shanti Volunteer Association (SVA) is engaging in infection prevention awareness and also distributing hygiene items and emergency food in Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan.

In Afghanistan, there have been over 30,000 COVID-19 cases so far, with over 4,000 new cases in a single week recently, and this pandemic is not nearing an end for this country. (Number of cases are as of 25 June.) Also, since the regular vaccination schedule has had to be suspended due to the spread of COVID-19, there has been a rise in the number of polio cases in areas of Afghanistan where there were none in recent years. In Nangarhar Province where SVA’s project is taking place, there has also been a rapid increase in people contracting typhoid fever. Difficult days loom ahead for the nation, and SVA will continue its awareness-raising and relief item distribution project, while taking thorough preventative measures against infections.

2HJ Assisting People in Need in Japan

26th June 2020 23:00

As a JPF grant project, JPF member NGO Second Harvest Japan (2HJ) began a food assistance project for people whose livelihoods were affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19).

As elementary, junior high, and high schools closed down and people refrained from economic activities to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, many people had their livelihoods affected and are in need of food assistance, including single-parent households and workers without full-time regular employment. Through provision of food, 2HJ will help alleviate the financial burdens and psychological toll from those who have been affected.

We Had a JPF Online Information Session!

10th June 2020 23:00

• Visiting each household and explaining the content of the prevention awareness pamphlet ©SVA
• A child reading the prevention awareness pamphlet ©SVA
• Voices from organizations for persons with disabilities ©AAR
• Challenges to come ©AAR

On 5th June, JPF held its second online information session. We were grateful to have more than 30 people participate. The JPF secretariat opened the session with the overall explanation of our Coronavirus (COVID-19) Emergency Response, followed by JPF member NGOs Shanti Volunteer Association (SVA) and Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR), which are implementing JPF grant projects, introducing their activities to the participants.

SVA is currently working on infection prevention awareness and also distributing hygiene items and emergency food in the Daman District of Afghanistan. Afghanistan had already been in a humanitarian crisis since before COVID-19 began to spread worldwide. Especially in Daman, where many internally displaced persons and repatriated Afghans live, the risks are high for the spread of infection due to prevention information not reaching the residents whose general literacy is low. While their awareness raising activities are currently ongoing, SVA anticipates how vital it will be to put even more thorough efforts into prevention in the weeks and months to come.

AAR, on the other hand, spoke about their domestic efforts in Japan as they currently distribute relief items to persons with disabilities and support the improvement of remote work environment for organizations for persons with disabilities. AR’s beneficiary facilities for persons with disabilities, who have received disinfectants and masks, have expressed how happy they were to have necessary items now, given how they had been struggling to obtain these items that were no longer on store shelves. AAR noted two challenges that lie ahead. Firstly, infection prevention items are lacking in group homes and other welfare facilities for persons with disabilities where there is higher risk of COVID-19 spreading in clusters. Secondly, patients with kidney disease who cannot avoid getting in close contact with others while on dialysis also do not have access to enough masks; currently, there are about 80,000 people in this category.

We would like to thank everyone who has participated in the information session. We are planning on holding additional online information sessions and look forward to having you participate in the future.

SVA Providing Assistance in Afghanistan

5th June 2020 23:00

• ©SVA
• ©SVA

As a JPF grant project, JPF member NGO Shanti Volunteer Association (SVA) is engaging in infection prevention awareness and also distributing hygiene items and emergency food in Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan.

Number of COVID-19 cases has increased in Afghanistan where it is now over 11,000 (as of 27th May). In Daman where SVA is implementing its activities, repatriated Afghans, who were formerly refugees in Iran and Pakistan, and internally displaced persons (IDPs) are clustered in close quarters without sufficient hygiene or sanitation.

SVA has been working very closely with the local village leaders and representatives of mosques in selecting 300 needy households that are in the most need of assistance. For these households, they distributed pamphlets containing infection prevention awareness information along with hygiene items and food. The hygiene items distributed at this time included soap, toilet paper, and masks. The food distribution included a month’s supply of flour, cooking oil, and beans for ten persons, which is the average number of family members per household in this area. SVA will continue to distribute relief items to more households in the days to come.

For more details, please visit the SVA website: https://sva.or.jp/wp/?news=38524

PWJ beginning provision of relief items to health care facilities

21st May 2020 23:00

In order to guard the health care workers against risks of infection and to protect the health care system, as a JPF grant project, JPF member NGO Peace Winds Japan (PWJ) is providing items needed to prevent infection for health care facilities in Japan that are treating COVID-19 patients.

When testing and treating patients with severe symptoms of COVID-19, there is a heightened risk of transmission through droplets. However, health care facilities are coping with the shortage of medical supplies through reusing single-use items, which has resulted in a higher risk of infection among the medical professionals; this has also taken a psychological toll on these frontline workers. If COVID-19 spreads among health care workers, there will be an even heavier burden on the select medical facilities that can still treat patients with severe symptoms. If that happens, ultimately, it could jeopardize the health care system in Japan as a whole.

This project is intended to serve those frontline medical facilities that are currently accepting and treating COVID-19 patients with moderate to severe symptoms through the provision of medical-grade masks (N95 respirator masks) and so on. Conditions change day by day on the medical frontline, and we will continue to monitor their needs as we deliver our assistance to them.

PWJ Begins Assistance for People Fleeing Myanmar

18th May 2020 16:10

• Awareness-raising activities in Bangladesh ©PWJ
• Awareness-raising activities in Bangladesh ©PWJ

As a JPF grant project, JPF member NGO Peace Winds Japan (PWJ) has begun working in Ukhia and Teknaf Upazilas of Cox’s Bazar District in Bangladesh to improve the coronavirus (COVID-19) infection prevention efforts among the people who have fled Myanmar, the residents in the host communities, and the health care clinic in the refugee camp.

Population density is extremely high both within the refugee camp for people who have fled Myanmar as well as in the host community. Given the fragile medical infrastructure, there are concerns as to the potential severity of damages if infection spreads. However, sufficient knowledge about infection prevention has not reached residents due to low literacy and language barriers, leaving very limited options for preventative measures.

As increase in COVID-19 cases could jeopardize the continued implementation of current humanitarian aid efforts, which could then lead to greater humanitarian crisis, this project aims to reduce the risks of the spread of infection. In cooperation with a local implementation partner, PWJ will be providing awareness-raising activities to make sure the people who have fled Myanmar and the host community residents are able to gain adequate knowledge of the virus and information on infection prevention. Through their efforts, they intend to reduce bias and misinformation and lead the residents towards practicing prevention. Furthermore, they will be distributing soaps along with their awareness campaign to allow for a more effective infection prevention.

In the health care clinic operated by PWJ in the refugee camp, they are required to refer any patients who are highly suspected of COVID-19 to another clinic or hospital where treatment is possible. To prevent the potential spread of the virus from the clinic to the rest of the camp, PWJ will be equipping the clinic with PPEs to ensure infection prevention among the clinic staff.

*Taking into consideration the ethnic background and diversity of people fleeing Myanmar, JPF is using the expression "Myanmar refugees" instead of "Rohingya.

PWJ Providing Masks to Eldercare Facilities in Tokyo

15th May 2020 22:00

• Masks being in use at a facility (*Banner: “Thank You”) ©PWJ
• Masks being received at a facility ©PWJ
• Masks and hypochlorous acid tablets provided to facilities ©PWJ
• Relief items being packed up ©PWJ

As a JPF grant project, JPF member NGO Peace Winds Japan (PWJ) is providing infection prevention items to eldercare facilities in regions in Japan with increased cases of COVID-19 cases.

During the holiday week between the end of April and beginning of May, a total of 100,000 masks and disinfectants (hypochlorous acid tablets) were delivered directly to a total of 498 eldercare facilities* in Tokyo. [*Intensive-care homes for the elderly, elder daycare service facilities, low-cost homes for the elderly, nursing homes for the elderly, etc.]

Elderly people are known as more likely to show intensified symptoms of COVID-19 once infected with the coronavirus. However, eldercare facilities cannot close down even temporarily because so many elderly people’s lives depend on the caregiving and nursing care from these facilities. The objective of this project is in providing relief items so that the elderly people living in and using these facilities as well as the staff who work there can take appropriate infection prevention measures.

It had been causing psychological strain on the staff working at these facilities as they could not take sufficient preventative measures due to the nationwide shortage of prevention items, and we received so many messages of appreciation from the beneficiaries of this project. Let us introduce one such message here:

<Message of Appreciation (*Excerpt from the PWJ website)>
“Even under these circumstances, eldercare facilities like ours operate with the shared consciousness among our staff that we are an essential social infrastructure. However, our morale was being depleted as uncertainties increased about our supply of masks and other hygiene items. The gifts we received at this time had encouraged all of us tremendously. We will continue to work hard so that our senior citizens here can maintain and improve their wellness.”
- From an intensive-care home for the elderly

Please read PWJ’s report here: https://peace-winds.org/emergency/17942

Doctors on the Frontline Give a Press Conference About Coronavirus (COVID-19) Relief Efforts

8th May 2020 15:00

• Press conference ©ARROWS
• Providing care for the cruise ship in Nagasaki ©ARROWS
• Providing care for the cruise ship in Nagasaki ©ARROWS

On 7th May, Dr. Mototaka Inaba, a medical doctor working with Airborne Rescue & Relief Operations With Search (ARROWS), which is an organization operated by JPF member NGO Peace Winds Japan (PWJ), held a press conference with other health care providers. This was an opportunity for the voices of the frontline medical professionals to be heard.

Through the work of ARROWS, PWJ has been distributing masks to medium-sized and small medical clinics in Japan, donating an antibody testing device to the University of Tokyo Hospital, and, since late April, dispatching medical relief teams to the cruise ship docked in Nagasaki. As a JPF grant project, PWJ has also been distributing infection prevention items to facilities for the elderly.

In late April, PWJ distributed 114,000 masks through ARROWS to over 500 small medical clinics in Tokyo, where there is a large number of positive cases of COVID-19. According to the survey conducted with clinics during the distribution effort, many voiced concerns about intra-clinic transmission because there were insufficient supplies of medical masks and PPEs necessary when seeing patients who are likely to be or already known to be infected. This was all the more reason why many clinics that have struggled to secure masks and PPEs have shown their appreciation for these distributions by PWJ.

*Distribution of masks and PPEs to small clinics is not a part of the JPF grant project.

REALs Begins Assistance in South Sudan

2nd May 2020 22:30

As a JPF grant project, JPF member NGO Reach Alternatives (REALs) is beginning its assistance activities for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in South Sudan. REALs’ activities involve distribution of NFIs and awareness raising for coronavirus (COVID-19) infection prevention.

About 2,200 households (or about 11,000 persons) live in South Sudan’s Mangaten Camp for IDPs. There is hardly any international assistance to the people living in this camp, and they lack WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) facilities and items. Awareness of hygiene may also be insufficient, and diseases tend to break out often.

REALs had initially planned to distribute hygiene items to the most vulnerable 100 households within Mangaten Camp. But sanitation in the camp is very poor and IDPs are living in crowded quarters, with the health care system not established. If infection spreads in the camp, it can end up in a highly dangerous condition for the residents.

This is why it was decided that this project will not only target the most vulnerable 100 households but provide all households in the camp with hygiene items such as soap and disinfectants. Additionally, there will be water provision and distribution of leaflets that have useful information on infection prevention. Through these measures, infection prevention will be an all-camp effort.

*NFIs: Non-food items. This includes hygiene items and other daily essential items.
*Starting on 25th March 2020, Japan Center for Conflict Prevention (JCCP) has changed its name to Reach Alternative (REALs).

PWJ Beginning Relief Activity in Japan

24th April 2020 20:00

As a JPF grant project, JPF member NGO Peace Winds Japan (PWJ) has begun distributing infection prevention supplies to eldercare facilities. As the number of COVID-19 cases is rising in Japan, people are worried that the spike in the number of patients would trigger a health care collapse. Older adults are considered especially at risk for severe symptoms of COVID-19, and there are concerns that a rapid increase in severely ill patients will result in the tightening of the supply-demand balance in health care.

This project by PWJ involves provision of masks and other supplies, which are necessary to prevent the spread of infections, for eldercare facilities located in regions in Japan experiencing a rapid spread of the virus. We will support staff working at these facilities, who have been working with a strong sense of duty and mission despite anxieties about infection, so that they can take proper infection prevention measures for themselves and those for whom they care.

SVA Beginning Relief Activity in Afghanistan

24th April 2020 19:11

As a JPF grant project, JPF member NGO Shanti Volunteer Association (SVA) will begin its response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) in Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan. The response involves infection prevention awareness work as well as hygiene supplies and emergency food distribution. Afghanistan had already been facing a humanitarian crisis due to the prolonged conflict in the country and repeated natural disasters. It is also considered a part of the world at risk for enormous damages from the spread of this virus, because the health care system is not well established and many of its citizens are malnourished.

With the spread of COVID-19, Nangarhar Province has been in a state of lockdown since mid-March. This project will be implemented in the Daman District of Nangarhar Province, in an area where there is a concentration of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and return migrants from Pakistan. Many people who live in this area make their living as day laborers, and the restriction of movement has caused many of them to struggle to obtain food. There are also many who are illiterate and cannot access information on prevention. SVA will be working on raising awareness of coronavirus infection prevention, distribute hygiene supplies, and offer emergency food that is necessary for the people to get by.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Emergency Response: JPF Chosen as a Brandear Charity Program Beneficiary

24th April 2020 4:00

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Defactostandard, Ltd., is a company that runs Brandear, a service that facilitates a home pick-up of used brand name items that people want to sell. At this time, the company has generously selected JPF’s Coronavirus (COVID-19) Emergency Response’s domestic activities as one of the beneficiaries of the Brandear Charity Program. We are very grateful to be chosen!

Due to the spread of the coronavirus, people are refraining from going outdoors, and this has persisted for a fairly long period of time now. With “desires to connect people’s good will to relief work as much as possible,” Defactostandard is responding with this charity initiative. The charity program uses a part of the proceeds for used items towards donations for environmental protection and global children’s causes. The program embodies the company’s wishes to establish a cyclical sustainable society through facilitating reuse of items, while simultaneously circulating people’s compassion and kindness that connects them to each other.

With more time spent at home now, why don’t you declutter your rooms and also give support to those who need it?

<Overview of the Brandear Charity Program>
Program Term: Tuesday 21st April 2020 - End date to be announced
How to participate:
1) Sign up for home pick-up at Brandear (https://brandear.jp/) during the program term
2) When you agree to the buying price, you can also designate that a part of it (from 1 yen to any mount) be donated towards JPF‘s Coronavirus (COVID-19) Emergency Response’s domestic activities.

Please check out the following links for more information.

Defactostandard’s Press Release: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000012.000054472.html
News on Defactostandard’s website: https://www.defactostandard.co.jp/news/corporate/200422.html

Yahoo! Japan Charity Fund: Please Support the JPF Coronavirus (COVID-19) Emergency Response

20th April 2020 21:00

As the virus sees no borders, there is need to support efforts that prevent infections of the coronavirus (COVID-19) around the world, including in vulnerable conflict zones and refugee camps. We appreciate your warm support of JPF’s relief activities.

Yahoo! Japan Charity Fund: https://donation.yahoo.co.jp/detail/987027/

For those who have already donated, we thank you once again for your gifts. Your donations will be put to use for the coronavirus (COVID-19) emergency response efforts by JPF and our member NGOs.

Please Support the JPF Coronavirus (COVID-19) Emergency Response: The Rakuten Clutch Special Charity Fund

14th April 2020 20:08

In light of the global spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19), JPF is providing prompt delivery of assistance based on local conditions and needs in areas with concerns for further spread of infections, including Japan. At this time, we are pleased to announce that JPF was chosen as one of the beneficiaries for the Rakuten Clutch Special Charity Fund’s “COVID-19 Crisis Response Fund.” We thank you for your warm support and extend our sincere gratitude to those who have already given to this cause.

Rakuten Clutch Special Charity Fund: https://bit.ly/2W9AMm1

AAR Beginning Relief Activity

13th April 2020 12:22

As a JPF grant project, JPF member NGO Association for Aid and Relief, Japan (AAR) has begun its project for persons with disabilities, namely to distribute items needed and to help establish a remote work environment for organizations for persons with disabilities.

The coronavirus is spreading around the world. In Japan, with the increase in the number of cases comes concern for the spread of the virus to persons with disabilities, including individuals with underlying medical conditions at higher risk for severe symptoms as well as welfare-based places of employment where persons with disabilities work. This project is aimed at infection prevention and targets households with persons with disabilities and welfare-based places of employment. Hygiene and medical supplies will be distributed through an organization for persons with disabilities that has branches around Japan.

Novartis Pharma Donates E-Books for Those Staying at Home Due to the Effects of the Coronavirus

13th April 2020 11:20

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Novartis Pharma has donated the rights to freely access electronic books online about hypertension for those staying at home due to the effects of the coronavirus. We are grateful for their generosity! In response to the books’ popularity, they have extended the term until 31st May for readers to download the books. Since the end of March when this project began, over 1,000 downloads have been made on these books. We recommend that you take a look, especially if you have not left the home much, lack exercise, and are concerned about your blood pressure. The books can be accessed not only by the beneficiaries of JPF’s and member NGOs’ relief projects but among the wider general public, too, so please do give these books a try! We welcome you sharing this information with others, too!

• How to access the books: Visit the e-book service website BookLive! and sign up for free: https://booklive.jp/feature/index/id/novartis
• Downloadable from 20th March 2020 to 31st May 2020
• Books: “10-Second Exercises to Lower Your Blood Pressure (Publisher: Ei-Publishing) and “Healthy Recipes for Adults: Menus for Those with High Blood Pressure” (Publisher: Orange Page)

For more details, please visit the following page at the JPF website: https://www.japanplatform.org/info/2020/03/181200.html

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Emergency Response: Go Japan! Return Gifts of Masks from China

20th March 2020 18:55

• Receiving shipping of masks at Saga Airport ©PWJ

On 24 March, 48,000 masks donated by the people of the city of Tianjin and Chinese residents in Japan arrived in the storage space for Airborne Rescue & Relief Operations With Search (ARROWS) in Saga City, Saga Prefecture, with the following heartfelt message: “Let us overcome this together for our friendship between Japan and China.” As an emergency initial assessment, JPF had provided 504,000 masks for China in January and February through ARROWS, an organization operated by Peace Winds Japan (PWJ). (The actual delivery was made through a local partner organization with whom a cooperative relationship had been established prior.)

ARROWS is preparing to distribute these donated masks to medical facilities and other institutions in Japan facing high risks of infection and aggravation of symptoms.

(*PWJ’s mask distribution within Japan is not supported by grants from JPF.)

Please visit here for more information: https://peace-winds.org/emergency/17577

PWJ Delivering Relief Items

27th February 2020 15:34

• Transporting relief items ©PWJ

As part of JPF’s emergency initial assessment for the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Emergency Response program, a team from Airborne Rescue & Relief Operations With Search (ARROWS; formerly called Peace Winds Rescue), an organization operated by Peace Winds Japan (PWJ), delivered a total of 136 boxes or about 1,200 kilograms of relief items (as of 5 February) to Shanghai. Relief items included PPEs, medical face masks, rubber boots, gloves, bandages, and other items that can be used to prevent infection. They also included blood collection kits, hemostatic dressing, sterile pipettes, and other medical supplies that can be used not only for treating patients and testing their blood but also for professional medical staff working on testing and potentially development of vaccines.

Additionally, to prevent the further spread of the coronavirus domestically, ARROWS provided 160,000 masks that they had been storing to medical facilities in Japan. They have purchased rubber boots, gloves, more masks, and other medical supplies in preparation for the future.

(*PWJ’s mask distribution within Japan is not supported by JPF grants.)

For more information on this project, please visit the following pages:
https://peace-winds.org/emergency/17278
https://peace-winds.org/news/17392