Chugai’s program to donate “specially-equipped para-transit vehicles” began in 1985 as part of activities to commemorate the Company’s 60th anniversary. This year marks the program’s 38th year. Five vehicles were donated, bringing the cumulative total over 39 years to 278 vehicles.

In Japan’s super-aging society, the number of senior citizens and disabled people requiring nursing care has continued to increase. To bring these individuals the peace of mind that comes from leading an independent life in familiar surroundings, a variety of facilities have begun offering day services, day care and other welfare services for those living at home. The specially-equipped para-transit vehicles donated by Chugai are used as a means of transportation between these facilities and the homes of those using the services.

This year, recipients of the vehicles included Nanyo City Council of Social Welfare (Yamagata Prefecture), Ibaraki Town Social Welfare Council (Ibaraki Prefecture), Torigoe Social Welfare Council (Ishikawa Prefecture), Yamatokai Social Welfare Council (Nara Prefecture), Nakatsu City Social Welfare Council (Oita Prefecture). A presentation ceremony was held in each location, and the donations were warmly received by recipient facility staff and users.

The welfare vehicle donation program is conducted in cooperation with the Japan National Council of Social Welfare and the Central Community Chest of Japan, and through them, vehicles have been donated to recipients in all of Japan’s 47 prefectures.