TOKYO - As Japan's summer vacation drags on, economic hardship is hitting single-parent families particularly hard. A recent survey revealed that about one in three children in these households are limited to just two meals a day during the summer, as school lunches are no longer available.
Many of these families also face significant financial challenges, with some parents skipping meals to ensure their children can eat. The income of single-mother households is roughly half of the national average, and a significant portion of these mothers are in non-regular employment, which contributes to their struggles.
In response, an NPO has launched the “Children’s Adventure Bank” program to provide financially disadvantaged children with opportunities for play and learning experiences. The program aims to address the growing gap in childhood experiences between children from different economic backgrounds.
Nearly 80% of single-parent households reported wanting to limit air conditioner use due to the high costs, further highlighting the financial pressures they face. The article underscores the broader issue of adult poverty, which is closely tied to child poverty, and the need for greater support for these vulnerable families.
Source: TBS
