What was the reason for founding Suginami Izumi second?

Watanabe-san: Around 20 years ago, a parent of a child with a disability founded the workshop ‘TE TO TE (hand in hand)’ to create a daytime activity space for children with special needs. Initially focused on weaving, it later merged with other facilities in the Suginami Ward and became a legal entity. Since then, it has continued its activities with the philosophy of ‘accepting everyone.’

Can you tell us about the daily activities?

Watanabe-san: Around 15 people with disabilities come to Suginami Izumi second each day from both inside and outside the ward. They mainly produce original handmade items using techniques such as Sashiko (traditional embroidery), dyeing, weaving, and felt ball crafting. They also take on tasks like park cleaning and folding towels. Some users* have been labeled as ‘disabled’ and may believe it themselves and think “I don’t have to do,” but they are capable of much more. As building confidence starts with trying, we focus on creating an environment where everyone feels encouraged to take on new challenges.

*Facility users with disabilities

Team staff: You are committed to expanding everyone’s possibilities as much as possible.

Any special actions that only Izumi takes by their own? Any features of that specific actions?

Watanabe-san: As mentioned earlier, we focus on helping users develop their skills and move toward greater independence. For example, with felt ball production, users handle almost the entire process themselves – except for the final inspection. Tasks like shaping, using hot water, and adding detergent were learned gradually with staff support. Over time, they have also started helping one another. A “spirit of mutual support” has naturally developed through daily work and interactions. Some users who used to rely on others have grown by taking on the responsibility of guiding and supporting newer members.

Team staff: So, it’s not just about independence, but also about working together and supporting each other. Are there any other unique features of Suginami Izumi?

Watanabe-san: We’re also working to expand our sales channels by partnering with both private and public retailers. These stores often have strict standards for things like product specifications, design, and quality. Meeting those high expectations has been challenging and required a lot of careful attention to detail.

Team staff: Despite the challenges, what made you decide to focus on expanding your sales channels?

Watanabe-san: Our goal is to improve wages for people with disabilities and to have their work recognized as a valuable part of society. In the past, staff managed both production and sales, but due to limited resources, we are now shifting our focus exclusively to production. While meeting the strict standards of retail partners – especially in terms of design, quality, and specifications – has been demanding, we have received encouraging feedback. One store even praised us, saying, “Suginami Izumi’s products are of exceptional quality.” By expanding our reach, we hope to support greater economic independence for our users.
The users also feel a strong sense of purpose and confidence when they see their work out in the market. Parents are also very happy to see the items their children made being sold in regular shops, which motivates us to keep pushing forward!

Finally, could you share your hopes and goals for the future?

Watanabe-san: I’d like more people to discover the quality of our products and, through that, help expand the possibilities for people with disabilities working in welfare facilities. Specifically, my hope is that users at Suginami Izumi second will one day become taxpayers themselves – fully recognized as part of the workforce. Ultimately, I’d like to see them in a position where they can even support others with more severe disabilities.

Team staff: Thank you. I understand that Suginami Izumi also holds product exhibitions once or twice a year. We would love many people to come and see the amazing work being done here.