Nagoya

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Community Support Networks

Sections

1. Overview of Community Support Networks in Nagoya

Nagoya has a well-organized system of community support networks designed to assist residents and visitors in times of need. These networks are a collaboration between local government agencies, non-profit organizations, and volunteer groups. They focus on disaster preparedness, crime prevention, and providing assistance to vulnerable populations, including foreigners.

2. Key Categories of Community Support Networks

A. Multilingual Safety and Security Support

  • Nagoya International Center (NIC):
    • The NIC is a hub for foreign residents and visitors, offering multilingual support for safety and security concerns.
    • Services include:
      • Information on disaster preparedness.
      • Guidance on reporting crimes or emergencies.
      • Legal and counseling services for victims of crime or harassment.
    • Languages: English, Chinese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, Filipino, and more.
    • Cost: Free for most services.
    • Location: Near Nagoya Station (Nagoya International Center Building).
    • Website: Nagoya International Center

B. Disaster Preparedness Networks

  • Nagoya City Disaster Prevention Center:

    • Provides training and resources to prepare for earthquakes, typhoons, and other natural disasters.
    • Offers multilingual disaster manuals and emergency contact information.
    • Regular disaster drills are conducted, and foreigners are encouraged to participate.
    • Cost: Free for participation in drills and access to resources.
    • Location: Atsuta Ward, Nagoya.
    • Local Consideration: Earthquakes are a significant concern in Japan, so understanding evacuation routes and emergency shelters is crucial.

  • Community Evacuation Sites:

    • Each neighborhood in Nagoya has designated evacuation sites (e.g., schools, parks) in case of emergencies.
    • Maps and instructions are available in multiple languages at the NIC and local ward offices.

C. Crime Prevention and Reporting

  • Koban (Police Boxes):

    • Small, local police stations (Koban) are located throughout Nagoya and provide immediate assistance for safety concerns.
    • Services include:
      • Reporting lost items.
      • Reporting crimes or suspicious activities.
      • Directions and general safety advice.
    • Cost: Free.
    • Local Consideration: Police officers may not always speak English, so carrying a translation app or contacting the NIC for assistance is recommended.

  • Aichi Prefectural Police Foreign Resident Support Center:

    • A dedicated service for foreigners to report crimes or seek advice on safety issues.
    • Multilingual support is available.
    • Cost: Free.
    • Contact: 052-951-1611 (English support available).

D. Neighborhood Associations (Chonaikai)

  • Local neighborhood associations play a significant role in community safety and security.
  • Activities include:
    • Organizing neighborhood patrols to prevent crime.
    • Sharing information about local safety concerns.
    • Coordinating disaster response efforts.
  • Cost: Membership fees may apply (typically a few hundred yen per month).
  • Procedure: Contact your local ward office or landlord to join.

E. Support for Vulnerable Populations

  • Womenโ€™s Safety Support:

    • Nagoya has womenโ€™s support centers that provide assistance for victims of domestic violence, stalking, or harassment.
    • Services include counseling, legal advice, and temporary shelter.
    • Cost: Free for initial consultations.
    • Contact: Nagoya Womenโ€™s Consultation Center (052-962-2527).

  • Support for Children and Families:

    • Child welfare centers provide assistance for child abuse cases or family-related safety concerns.
    • Multilingual support is available through the NIC.

3. Procedures for Accessing Support

A. In Case of Emergency

  • Dial 110 for police assistance (crime or safety concerns).
  • Dial 119 for fire or medical emergencies.
  • Use the Nagoya Emergency Multilingual Support App for real-time translation during emergencies.

B. Non-Emergency Support

  1. Visit the Nagoya International Center for guidance on safety and security resources.
  2. Contact your local ward office for information on neighborhood associations and evacuation sites.
  3. Participate in disaster drills or crime prevention workshops organized by the city.

C. Reporting Crimes or Safety Concerns

  1. Visit the nearest Koban or police station.
  2. If language is a barrier, contact the Aichi Prefectural Police Foreign Resident Support Center or the NIC for assistance.

4. Costs Involved

  • Most community support services in Nagoya are free of charge, especially those provided by government agencies and non-profits.
  • Minimal costs may apply for membership in neighborhood associations or participation in certain workshops.

5. Local Considerations

  • Language Barrier: While many services offer multilingual support, not all staff may speak English fluently. Carrying a translation app or phrasebook is highly recommended.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Japanese culture places a strong emphasis on community cooperation and respect. Participating in local safety initiatives (e.g., disaster drills) is both helpful and appreciated.
  • Natural Disasters: Earthquakes and typhoons are common in Japan. Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes, emergency shelters, and the cityโ€™s disaster preparedness resources.

6. Key Sites and Contacts

  • Nagoya International Center (NIC):

  • Nagoya City Disaster Prevention Center:

    • Address: 1-16-30, Atsuta Ward, Nagoya.
    • Phone: 052-671-7111.

  • Aichi Prefectural Police Foreign Resident Support Center:

    • Phone: 052-951-1611.

  • Nagoya Womenโ€™s Consultation Center:

    • Phone: 052-962-2527.

By utilizing these community support networks, you can ensure your safety and security while living in or visiting Nagoya. The cityโ€™s proactive approach to safety, combined with its multilingual resources, makes it a welcoming and secure environment for foreigners.