On March 3, 2023, Takarazuka City officials announced a remarkable donation of approximately 25.4 billion yen (around $230 million) from local couple Kouichi (77) and Akemi Okamoto (75) aimed at significantly enhancing healthcare facilities within the community. This substantial financial gesture will go toward the construction of the new Takarazuka municipal hospital, which is set to replace the decades-old facility currently serving the area.
The Okamotos, who have previously been active contributors to local welfare projects, declared their intentions rooted deeply in community spirit and responsibility. During their press conference, they emphasized the importance of the hospital to residents, noting, “We want the city to build a good hospital since it is such an important facility for the residents.” Their sentiments echo the broader need for quality healthcare as urban populations grow and the demands on local medical services increase.
The current municipal hospital, inaugurated back in 1984, has shown significant signs of aging, prompting city officials to strategize its renewal. This decision was not taken lightly, as city leaders grappled with the potential strain on fiscal resources. The total cost of the renovation is estimated at around 39.7 billion yen, of which the Okamoto’s generous donation will cover over 60%. This amount is especially meaningful considering it equates to almost one-third of Takarazuka City’s entire annual budget, projected at 905.5 billion yen.
The hospital rebuild is planned to open by the end of fiscal 2031. This ambitious timeline reflects the council's dedication to enhancing healthcare infrastructure amid rising costs associated with urban development. Local mayor Harue Yamazaki expressed deep gratitude during the announcement, stating, “I am filled with gratitude as we can now protect the city’s last bastion of life.” Her comments reflect the communal relief and appreciation felt by residents who heavily rely on this facility for their medical needs.
Motivated by earlier experiences during the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake, where the couple first engaged in volunteer work, the Okamotos established their foundation to support welfare initiatives within Takarazuka. The aftermath of the disaster provided them with firsthand insight on the necessity of community-based healthcare and support systems. Over the years, they have contributed to various societal advancement projects, including the establishment of community welfare facilities since 2002.
Through their continuous charitable efforts, the Okamotos have made impactful contributions to the welfare of Takarazuka’s residents. Their donation for the hospital not only aims to improve medical care but also builds on their legacy of community service. The couple's commitment to creating lasting positive change resonates within the community, particularly among those who directly benefit from access to improved healthcare.
Aside from the major funds designated for the construction of the new hospital, the couple also allocated around 4 billion yen for purchasing surgical support robots, aiming to equip the facility with modern medical technology. This additional investment emphasizes their commitment to ensuring high-quality healthcare services for all city residents.
Moving forward, Takarazuka City is preparing to present relevant legislation during city council meetings later this month, to formally establish the fund for this transformative project. The groundwork laid by the Okamotos’ donation, if fully realized, will contribute significantly to revitalizing the quality of healthcare and medical support within the community.
Such extensive philanthropy reflects not merely the wealth of the Okamotos but also their dedication to public health and welfare, which has now very much intertwined with the city’s approach to tackling healthcare challenges as it rises to meet the needs of its citizens.
The immense financial support from the Okamotos stands as both an inspiration and hope to the community of Takarazuka—evidencing the difference individual philanthropists can make and highlighting the intrinsic link between community service and enhanced local healthcare infrastructure.