Incheon City Launches Survey on Homelessness... Establishing Welfare and Self-Reliance Support Measures by Type

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Hyesook] Incheon City will conduct a survey and research on the current status of homeless people by the end of the year to establish systematic and professional welfare policies for the homeless.

According to the city on the 11th, this survey is being conducted to identify the total number of homeless people in the blind spots of COVID-19 quarantine, their living conditions, welfare needs, and psychological status, in order to establish support policies tailored to the characteristics of each type.

The city’s Social Service Center, which is in charge of the survey, plans to conduct a more accurate investigation of the total number of homeless people based on a point-in-time count (PIT survey), which counts the number of homeless people at specific locations during specific times in two phases.

In addition, to understand the routes of homelessness, economic situation, health status, and desire for independence, interviews will be conducted including residents of homeless facilities and jjokbang (small room) residents, and research including proposals for homeless support policies will be completed by the end of the year.

An official from Incheon City stated, "It is necessary to accurately grasp the scale and characteristics of the homeless to provide welfare and support for their independence," adding, "We will help homeless people live stable lives in the local community through this survey."

Meanwhile, currently in Incheon, there are 117 homeless people living on the streets and 270 homeless people residing in rehabilitation facilities, nursing facilities, and self-support facilities, totaling 387 homeless individuals. Also, five homeless welfare facilities and one jjokbang counseling center are in operation.