Origami-Making Initiative for Children Facing Pediatric Cancer, Bridging Regional and Corporate Boundaries
Volunteers delivering gift
In December 2025, 18 volunteers from Panasonic Industry Kumamoto Site (PID Kumamoto) and 20 volunteers from Panasonic Lighting Devices Kumihama (PLDV Kumihama) participated in the "Origami-Making Initiatives for Children Facing Pediatric Cancer," organized by Minna no Lemonade no Kai , a general incorporated association. The two sites created more than 500 origami pieces, which--together with Christmas presents and handmade Christmas cards--were delivered to children undergoing treatment for pediatric cancer, as well as their siblings, in hospitals and facilities across Japan.
Completed origami works
Minna no Lemonade no Kai was founded by families of children receiving treatment for pediatric cancer. Drawing from their firsthand experiences, the organization works to raise public awareness and provide support to children and their families during treatment. Among its various initiatives, origami-making is especially accessible, allowing anyone to participate and send messages of encouragement that bring smiles to children and their families. The completed origami pieces are delivered as gifts at events or when sending letters. The organization also runs the "Minlemo Santa" program, which brings books, toys, and other Christmas gifts to hospitals and facilities that care for pediatric cancer patients. This year's origami-making activity was carried out in December to support the Minlemo Santa program.
*The "Minlemo Santa" program received the 2022 Excellence Award in the Activities for "Nurturing Children's Hearts," sponsored by the Panasonic Education Foundation.
PID Kumamoto has strongly supported the purpose and significance of this initiative and has been participating since FY2024. Starting this year, PLDV Kumihama also joined the program through information sharing with PID Kumamoto, expanding the initiative beyond regional and corporate boundaries through a shared commitment. Origami-making sessions were held at each site after work. Although some participants found it challenging to fold origami after a long time, everyone folded each Santa, animal, and character figure with heartfelt wishes, hoping to bring smiles and encouragement to children undergoing treatment and their siblings.
PID Kumamoto participants
PLDV Kumihama participants
Completed origami works
Participant feedback (Selected Comments)
- I hope the Santas I folded with care will bring dreams to the children.
- I felt this was a meaningful activity that conveys a sense of connection to support children's heart.
- I was inspired by the wonderful activities of the Kumamoto team and decided to take on this challenge. I would be happy if we could bring even a little smile or courage to the children.
