Caritas Japan carries out fundraising, such as the Lenten "Offering of Love," aid activities in Japan and abroad, and awareness activities for people in vulnerable situations in Japan, working with Caritas Internationalis and other international bodies. It is also a member of Caritas Internationalis.
Its vision is to walk together toward a peaceful world in which every life, and especially human dignity, is respected. Its mission is to connect, listen and share hope in order to build a society that respects the lives of all.
Its history goes back to the distribution of relief goods just after the war. "Caritas Japan" was founded in 1970, and its work has included help with lodging for Vietnamese refugees in 1975, relief for Rwandan refugees from 1994, and response to the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011. Its website also announces fundraising for recent disasters.
Key points
- Founded in 1970 as a member of Caritas Internationalis, it carries out aid and awareness activities at home and abroad
- Priorities include emergency disaster relief, recovery from conflict, poverty, human rights, education and health
- Fundraising and activity reports are published for each disaster, such as the Nepal debris flow and the Kumamoto earthquake of Reiwa 8
Why this organization deserves attention
It is an organization that has responded to the emergencies of each era over a long history. While it has an international network, it also addresses disasters in Japan and the issues of people in vulnerable situations.
Monthly and annual activity reports and publications are available, offering a way to learn how donations are used.
Editor's comment
Even when news of disasters and conflicts saddens us, we may not know what to do. When there is a clear channel for donations and visible activity reports, as with Caritas Japan, it becomes easier to turn feelings into action.
Current fundraising appeals and the latest activity reports are gathered on the official website. Why not take a look?