Roger OngJapan is seeing an increase in foreign arrivals, including a surge in refugee status applicants. Many struggle due to a lack of residency status, making them ineligible for essential services like health insurance and work permits. This pushes them into financial hardship and social isolation.
Accept International, a nonprofit based in Tokyo, has been offering guidance since 2020, helping foreign residents with legal status, employment, healthcare, and language learning. The organization launched an emergency aid initiative using dormant bank deposits to provide food assistance and temporary housing.
Addressing food insecurity and housing instability
New arrivals often find it difficult to access appropriate food, especially halal options. Accept International provides tailored food packages and distributes ready-to-eat meals for those experiencing homelessness. Shopping assistance is also available to help individuals navigate food options and budgeting.
Finding stable housing is a major challenge, with many displaced individuals struggling to secure rental properties. Since last summer, the organization has received an increasing number of requests for shelter from people living in public spaces. Accept International provides temporary accommodation with basic amenities, creating a stable environment where residents receive support to adjust to life in Japan. One-on-one Japanese language lessons further help them integrate and prevent isolation.
Hardships, but there is resilience too
A recent survey of aid recipients highlighted their fears and aspirations. A Malian man admitted to feeling suicidal due to loneliness, while a Moroccan respondent worried about his health during the cold winter months. A pregnant woman from Cameroon feared for her unborn child’s future.
Despite these struggles, some find solace in small joys. A West African man finds strength in his wife’s encouragement, while an Indonesian woman appreciates the safety she now has in Japan. Many express a deep desire to contribute to society, gain legal residency, and provide for their families. Others remain uncertain about their future, frustrated by the lack of options.
Building a supportive future
Accept International’s emergency aid program continues, but critical gaps in Japan’s support system for displaced individuals still exist. The organization remains dedicated to providing immediate assistance while expanding efforts to help foreigners reintegrate into society.
[Website] Accept International Homepage (Japanese)
