Shima Sakamoto (49), who runs a so-called “baby post” in Tobetsu, Hokkaido, which accepts infants and toddlers who cannot be raised by their parents, has opened a similar facility in Nara City, according to an interview conducted on the 1st. According to Sakamoto, reservations are required in advance, and anonymous acceptance is also possible. This is the fifth facility after three in Hokkaido and Hamamatsu City.

The facility is called “Kodomo SOS Kansai” and has been set up within the “Home to Little Lives,” a facility run by Matsubara Hiroki (56), a former pastor in Nara City who is involved in activities such as adopting and raising children with disabilities. Matsubara said, “First, we provide consultation to people who are having trouble raising children, and if the situation is critical, we will take them in.” A Nara City official said, “We cannot comment at this time.” (Kyodo News)