Hiroshima - Members of the Hiroshima Japan-Thailand Friendship Association made a visit to Thailand, February 11-18, to get a first-hand look at the situation of impoverished families in the Northern provinces of Thai. As part of their activities, the Association provides financial assistance to intermediate school-aged girls, allowing them to have a junior high school education and avoid becoming victims of human trafficking.
Although Thailand offers free basic education, the cost of transportation, school supplies and uniforms (approx. 30,000 Yen for the Jr. high school term) prevents them from being able to attend junior high school. As a result, the girls are often sold, increasing their risk of being trafficked into the sex industry.
The Association, established through the efforts of various temple organizations and volunteers from the community is currently chaired by Rev. Koji Toyooka, retired resident minister of Anrakuji temple (Hiroshima). With the slogan, “The warmth of your hands can change a child’s life,” the Association has be making contributions to The National Council On Social Welfare of Thailand over the past sixteen years and has helped more than 1300 girls in receiving a junior high school education.
Donations are being accepted:

　　　　　　　　　　The Hiroshima Japan-Thailand Friendship Association
　　　　　　　　　　c/o Denpukuji
　　　　　　　　　　9-3 Showa-cho
　　　　　　　　　　Naka-ku, Hiroshima  730-0046
　　　　　　　　　　Tel: +81 (82)241-3764

(Excerpt from Hongwanji Journal, March 10, 2010)