Approximately 2–3% of children are born with intellectual disabilities. To create a society where everyone can thrive, we must establish systems that increase employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

As part of this effort, FUMIKODA collaborates with facilities supporting individuals with disabilities to create products using upcycled materials.

The featured piece here is a simple “Code Band” delivered from the disability support facility Everyone’s Hope.

Initially, due to restrictions and concerns about COVID-19, FUMIKODA was unable to provide direct, on-site guidance. However, the individuals working on these products quickly became adept at handling tools, resulting in nearly flawless deliveries.

The Challenge of Wages as a Barrier to Independence

Across Japan, approximately 9,176 employment support facilities (Type B) provide training to nearly 200,000 individuals with disabilities (※1). 

These Type B facilities offer support not only for those facing challenges in securing employment with private companies but also for those unable to enter stable employment contracts. They provide guidance for a self-sufficient daily life and offer training that equips individuals with the skills and knowledge to transition toward mainstream employment.

However, the average monthly wage at these facilities is just 16,118 yen (※2), a figure that makes it nearly impossible to live independently. To improve this situation, we need to expand work opportunities that spark interest among individuals with intellectual disabilities and offer skill-building that can eventually lead to earnings comparable to general employment.

※1 Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, “Current Status of Employment Support Services for Persons with Disabilities” (2020/5/14)

※2 Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, “Status of Employment Support Measures for Persons with Disabilities,” Fiscal Year 2018 Average Wage Report

Supporting employment for individuals with disabilities aligns with the following SDG goals:

1. No poverty
3. Good health and well-being
4. Quality Education
8. Decent work and economic growth
10. Reduced inequalities
17. Partnership for the goals

Income Doubling Plan for Individuals with Disabilities

Tomoshi Nabe, whose child has a severe intellectual disability, founded NPO AlonAlon and works with individuals with intellectual disabilities to teach skills like orchid cultivation and flower vase production. His “Income Doubling Plan for Persons with Disabilities” aims to raise monthly earnings to 100,000 yen.

Here’s a look at our visit to AlonAlon, a disability support facility in Kimitsu, Chiba Prefecture, where Mr. Nabe warmly welcomed us.

The participants are deeply engaged in their work, yet they occasionally face challenges with physical or mental stability. By setting up an environment that accommodates these needs and establishing a solid framework, AlonAlon has gradually expanded its activities. Visit AlonAlon's online flower shophere.

FUMIKODA’s Contribution

FUMIKODA pays individuals with disabilities the same rate (per item) that we previously paid the workshop that produced our bags. We’ve also started to offer opportunities to create upcycled items, starting with code bands, and are gradually introducing more complex items to allow for skill development.

While simply selling these items will not directly increase wages for all individuals with disabilities, we hope that initiatives like this will spread among manufacturing companies, creating more opportunities for individuals with disabilities to showcase their talents, ultimately leading to higher incomes over time.

To bring us closer to a society where everyone can thrive independently, FUMIKODA will continue its commitment to support employment for individuals with disabilities.

Explore items crafted at disability support facilities here.