Jobseekers receive hot food in Tokyo

Amid the prolonged recession, about 330 unemployed or homeless people made a line for hot food in a park of Tokyo on Thursday. They received soup and rice from volunteer workers.

Every year, volunteer groups provide food during the New Year's holidays for people living on the streets.

This year, the Tokyo municipal government set up temporary housing for the unemployed who are currently applying for jobs. Thanks to the service, few jobseekers in their 20s and 30s are joining the line, but more older people are.

A man in his 50s said he has barely survived this year while looking for a job. He said only a few jobs have been available for him and his hardship is unchanged from last year.
One of the organizers said many people have to live on the street, because despite of their desire to work, they cannot get any job opportunities. He added that the government has to do more to help such people