The goal of the LIVES Food truck is to expose as many people as possible to people with disabilities so they can nurture understanding and help change the mindset of the society. The food truck will be run by special needs individuals and student and adult volunteers, in collaboration with social welfare organization, universities and local government. Change is achievable when we all work together! Please support our cause by donating to this project, so that this can develop throughout Japan!
In Japan, often times individuals with special needs or disabilities are viewed as unequal contributors to society. Instead of seeking ways to include and provide real opportunities for them, companies will simply not hire people who do not fit their traditional profile. We hope to reverse this mindset by educating young adults on how to work with and support special needs people. Change is possible when the young adults have the vocabulary and experience to advocate for others.
We believe that our college and high school students and our volunteers will learn from working with and supporting the special needs workers directly. The lessons they will learn from the close relationships they develop in the truck will help them to shape working and living environment that are accessible to all people in Japan. Understanding and having success will help students to feel confident in their ability to begin a dialogue about embracing and increasing diversity in the work force.
Food tells a story. There is something truly special about receiving a plate full of food and knowing how much effort, thought, and care went into the creation of it. Nothing can beat the feeling of community that food provides. At Hands On Tokyo we believe that food is a vessel to spread empathy, understanding, and awareness, in the hopes of creating an inclusive Japan.
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