Solving the very real problem of a lack of guide dogs for the blind can help us achieve a society where everyone can live dignified lives. It is estimated that in Japan about 3,000 people (*1) are in need of a guide dog. Unfortunately, the number of guide dogs amounts to only 861 (as of the end of March 2021) (*2) and there is a shortage of funds for training them.

In order to solve this problem together with our customers, a fund-raising drive has been held at Seibu/Sogo, Ito-Yokado, Denny's, Yorkmart, York Foods and York Price stores (excluding some stores) (*3). Donations collected from customers and from employees, as well as financial contributions from Seven & i Holdings and Seibu/Sogo, are being used to fund the training of guide dogs. Since the start of the initiative in 1991, the total amount of funds collected thanks to the cooperation of all of you has exceeded 700 million yen (*4). The Seven & i Group will continue to work with its customers as a channel to convey their thoughts and to further their understanding of issues.