Life in Fukuoka "English"

【Protecting Animals】

This week, our topic is focused on being kind to animals. In fact, there is a Be Kind to Animals week from the 20^th to the 26^th of September. The week was created with the idea to deepen people's understanding and interest in animal welfare and proper breeding. It's also a great opportunity to think about how to protect animals. Take for example if you have a dog or a cat. You should consider how you would need to protect your pet in the case of a natural disaster such as an earthquake or heavy rain and perhaps even practice what you would do.

If you are thinking about getting a pet someday, checking animal protection group websites is a good way to get the information you need.

In Fukuoka City, the Eastern Animal Protection Management Center, also known as Animal Port, and the Home Animal Enlightenment Center, more commonly known as the Fukuoka-do-butsu-soudanshitsu, are two facilities to check. They work to protect and manage animals in the hopes of creating a symbiotic society in which humans and animals are in harmony.

I've got two cats at home and have worked to find homes for other rescued cats. Personally, I recommend adopting rescue pets if you can. There are many animals out there looking for caring homes. If you are new to having a pet, some of it is trial and error but if you listen to your pet and pay attention, I think you'll do just fine. I love having cats, they have such unique personalities and quirks and bring a lot of joy to my house.

【Introducing the Tutor Program】

Now I have some information from Fukuoka City International Center about the Tutor Program. This will be useful for those of you who are struggling with letters from school and other places because you can't understand what is written in Japanese. The “Tutor Program” is a one on one service that will match you with a tutor that you can contact online. You'll be able to ask this tutor to give you simple translations of letters from school or other documents from places like the ward office. You can also ask them for advice on daily living.

If you are a foreign resident of Fukuoka City and think you will be able to communicate with a tutor online, then you are eligible for the program. The program will usually cost 500 yen per month but until November of this year, it is free!

【The Japanese Chatting Salon】

 I've also got information for any international students who are studying in Fukuoka. Do you about the monthly Japanese Chatting Salon? Using Zoom, international students and Japanese volunteers meet one on one or in small groups to talk about topics that interest them. If you are looking for a chance to use daily Japanese as well as practice the Japanese you've learned in class, or just want to chat with a native Japanese speaker, then definitely join in! The sessions are free and the next session will be held online on September 30^th.

To learn more about the programs mentioned today or to make a reservation, please visit the Fukuoka City International Foundation's website or call the Foundation. The number to call is 092-262-1799. Again that number is 092-262-1799. Phone calls will be accepted from 8:45am to 6pm

on weekdays. Definitely check it out!