Co-op Kobe has been working on the "Tasuke Touch" initiative using an app since 2021. This is a community mutual help activity in which co-op members help each other to solve minor problems in their daily lives. Those who need help can request 15 minutes of assistance, such as taking out the trash or cleaning the exterior of the house, for 110 yen. Each person who offers to help receives 100 Co-op Kobe points. This activity is realized by co-op members living in the neighborhood.

This summer, in order to expand the activities of "Tasuke Touch," a special summer vacation project was organized by calling on local volunteer groups and others.

On August 10, a third-year elementary school student, OE Shota, and his first-year brother, OE Keiji, participated in the special summer vacation project of "Tasuke Touch" as "helpers."  Mr. KAWASHIMA Tadaichi, an elder in the neighborhood who called for "help" was also his first experience.

Shota and Keiji visited Mr. Kawashima's house at an appointed time and exchanged greetings.

     

　

The day's activity was to clean the terrace of Mr. Kawashima's house. Shota and Keiji collected leaves and other debris from the terrace and placed them in garbage bags. 10 minutes later, the cleaning was completed and the broom, dustpan, and garbage bags were returned to their designated locations.

After the cleaning was completed, Shota and Keiji reported the completion of their "Tasuke Touch" assistance on the Co-op Kobe app that their mother has registered for, and was awarded 100 points.

     

Mr. Kawashima commented, "I usually do the cleaning myself. But there are times when I am not feeling well, so I would be happy to have help on those occasions."

Comments from Shota and Keiji included, "I was nervous, but I was able to do it right and had fun," and "I would do it again if they ask me to do it." Their mother who was watching the activity said, "It was good that the children were able to experience being able to help someone. I hope this will be a good opportunity for them to take action when they see someone in need."