It can be an opportunity to learn about the importance of food and the difficulties of work.

In October 2023, Zensho Kagayaki Children's Foundation ^* established the Zensho Group supermarket "Joy Foods Sekijuku (Sekiyado) Tsugiki (Namiki) We conducted a rice harvesting experience for children living in children's homes at a rice paddy set up at the store.

* Zensho Kagayaki Children's Foundation is a general incorporated foundation established with the aim of supporting children living under social care so that they can choose a career path that suits their abilities and aptitudes, and dedicate themselves to their studies with enthusiasm, without being hindered from further education or participation in society due to economic reasons, and to contribute to the healthy character development of these children.

This activity is a sequel to the rice planting experience we held in May 2023. The aim was to teach participants about the importance of food and the hardships of work by having them experience the rice production process themselves, including planting and harvesting rice.

Upon arriving at the rice paddy, the children were welcomed by the participating employees and immediately began harvesting the rice.
While learning how to use a sickle, we harvested the rice plants we had planted ourselves earlier, one stalk at a time.

The harvested rice is Rice rack (hasa) Hanging (but) We tried the traditional method of drying rice by leaning it against something called "ke".

Once the rice harvest is mostly finished, it's time for the much-anticipated lunch.
Under the blue sky, I enjoyed an "onigiri bento" (rice ball lunch box) made with rice of the same variety as the harvested rice.

Children who participated shared comments such as, "It was the first time I'd seen rice and rice stalks before they were cooked," and "It was fun to have an experience I don't usually get to have with everyone."

Zensho Kagayaki Children's Foundation will continue to engage in various activities to provide children with opportunities to think about their future dreams.