Establishment History and Background

• 1896 (Meiji 29): Founded when Ms. Kitakawa Hatsu used her private funds to rescue 26 orphans who lost their parents in the Meiji-Sanriku Earthquake
• As of 2017: A historic facility celebrating its 121st year since establishment
• 1950 (Showa 25): Established a Child Education Consultation Center

Operating Philosophy

Christian Spirit-Based Operations

• Biblical Teaching: Based on Matthew 25:40 - "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me"
• Mission: To accept and love children, who are among "the least of these," just as they are

Child-Centered Approach

• Operations based on the principles of the "Convention on the Rights of the Child," "Child Welfare Act," and "Children's Charter"
• Emphasizes children's greatest wish to "return to their caregivers" and focuses on family reunification