SOMPO style children’s cafeterias: Connecting generations
Most children’s cafeterias act as soup kitchens mainly for children, focusing on providing free meals to families in need. In contrast, there are around 470 homes run by Sompo Care that have taken a different approach. The homes serve as local hubs for intergenerational exchange, creating opportunities for interaction between residents and children. The SOMPO style Children’s Cafeteria initiative aims to bring renewed energy and smiles to residents, enhance motivation among staff, and build a new kind of space rooted in mutual connection.
This new approach to children’s cafeterias is a simple idea, embedded within the local community, creating a profound impact. In July, the initiative reached a milestone of 50,000 meals served. Why would a nursing care provider take on such a role? Because Sompo Care believes that caring for people means nurturing the communities around them, and that joy, purpose, and belonging are every bit as important as nutrition.
Since launching in July 2022, more than 52,000 children have taken part in SOMPO style Children’s Cafeterias across Japan. What may sound a bit unusual – hosting a cafeteria for children in a care home – has become a model of how generations can come together to enrich each other’s lives.
At our children’s cafeterias, the focus is not only serving food. Children take part in activities such as helping to set and clear tables, learning about hygienic practices, and joining recreational programs with elderly residents. These homes become spaces where everyone – residents, children and parents – can share experiences that bridge generations and spark new friendships.
The powerful effect of sharing meals
Each SOMPO style Children’s Cafeteria brings something valuable to everyone involved.
- For residents: renewed energy and purpose. The laughter and cheerful voices of children bring energy and motivation to residents’ daily lives. “I feel happy when I hear their voices, and I look forward to seeing them again,” one resident says. These encounters bring smiles, spark conversations, and even inspire gentle exercise, all of which contribute to wellbeing in both body and spirit.
- For children: learning through connection. Beyond a warm meal, children gain opportunities to meet and learn from older generations. By experiencing the caregiving profession firsthand, they expand their awareness of others and develop empathy and social skills that will serve them for life.
- For parents and guardians: reassurance and community. Those juggling work and raising a family have come to see the cafeterias as a place to slow down, enjoy a conversation, and connect with others. Many express relief at finding “a place in the neighborhood we can count on.”
- For staff: motivation and fulfillment. The initiative has brought a renewed sense of pride in Sompo Care employees. Seeing residents and children interact, and hearing words of gratitude from families gives their daily work new meaning.
Growing through the power of collaboration
Reaching the 50,000-meal milestone was possible thanks to the power of connection, not only within communities but across the entire Sompo Group.
Employees from various group companies volunteer at Sompo Care homes, helping to anchor the program in local communities. Sompo Japan contributes its expertise in risk management through fun, hands-on disaster-preparedness workshops for children.
Sompo Group has a business alliance with fitness and lifestyle services company RIZAP Group, and the partnership has helped us bring expert-led health-promotion events to residents and families. Collaboration with Japan’s professional women’s soccer, WE League, has seen players visit care homes to enjoy light “footgolf” sessions with the children and residents, expanding the reach and impact of these initiatives.
Photo credit: WE LEAGUE
Through these cross-industry partnerships, the SOMPO style Children’s Cafeteria has grown far beyond a meals program. It has become a shared movement that strengthens communities and builds bridges across generations.
Looking ahead toward a more sustainable and inclusive society
Sompo Care will continue expanding the SOMPO style Children’s Cafeteria to ensure it remains a vital part of local communities even 10 or 20 years down the road, and beyond.
By deepening collaboration within the Sompo Group and working closely with NPOs, other companies, local governments, and schools, we aim to create spaces where every generation, from children to seniors, can feel safe, connected, and energized.
