Support Homeless in Japan

In September, Homedoor received 116 new consultations from people facing homelessness or housing insecurity.

This is the same number as in August, when we also received 116 new consultations, and an increase from 105 in July.

Behind each number is a person facing their own challenges—such as losing a job, having nowhere to stay, or being unable to afford housing.

At Homedoor, we provide a safe place where people can talk about their situation and begin thinking about their next step. We aim to support each person according to their circumstances, from emergency shelter and meals to housing, employment, and ongoing support.

Topic 2: Staying Connected After Leaving Our Shelters

Moving into a new home does not mean that our relationship with someone has to end.

When people leave our shelters and move on to their next stage of life, we give them an “Okaeri Ticket.” The ticket allows them to enjoy six free lunches at Okaeri Kitchen, a community café operated by Homedoor.

They can simply come for a meal, or stop by to tell our staff how things are going.

Recently, we met someone who had completed all six visits on their ticket. Interestingly, they told us that they originally came back because they enjoyed spending time with our staff and helping out at Homedoor. Before they knew it, they had also used all six free lunches.

We believe that support should not end simply because someone has left a shelter.

We want to continue providing a place where people can stay connected with Homedoor in a relaxed and natural way—even after they have moved into a new chapter of their lives.

Topic 3: “I’m Truly Grateful That I Found Homedoor”

One person who received support from Homedoor recently shared their experience:

“I am truly grateful that I found Homedoor.

I was worried about whether I would really be accepted because I had no money and nowhere to live.

Even after finding Homedoor, I was too nervous to open the door. I walked around near the entrance for a while, unable to take that first step.

But when I finally gathered the courage to go inside, the staff welcomed me warmly and listened to what I had to say. They even prepared a private room for me right away.

After that, they continued to think together with me about how I could move forward with my life. I am deeply grateful for everything they did.

If you are in a similar situation and are struggling to take that first step, I encourage you to reach out and ask for help. I believe you will be glad that you did.

To everyone at Homedoor, thank you so much for helping me.”

For someone experiencing homelessness, taking the first step to ask for help can be incredibly difficult.

Your support helps us make sure that when someone finally finds the courage to open the door, there is someone there to welcome them.

Links:

• See more about Homedoor