Integrated Support Provided to 15 Youth Participants Over Eight Months
On June 2, the Umi Hope Foundation announced the completion of the second phase of its 'Umi Hope Care' program, which was operated for youth with family caregiving responsibilities.
From May 31, the foundation held a two-day, one-night activity sharing session in Yeosu, Jeollanam-do, with participating youth to reflect on the achievements of the 'Umi Hope Care' program. 'Umi Hope Care' is a program designed to provide a foundation for independence to young people who bear the responsibility of caring for their families. Since 2023, the foundation has partnered with Save the Children Gwangju Child Rights Center to provide integrated support every year, including living expense scholarships, psychological counseling, and self-help groups (groups that share similar difficulties or experiences).
For the second phase, 15 youth with family caregiving responsibilities were selected. From October last year to May this year, over approximately eight months, the program provided regular caregiving support as well as customized programs for career exploration and emotional recovery.
At this sharing session, participants presented various cases of personal growth, focusing on academics and leisure activities while being relieved from caregiving burdens. They also created enjoyable memories through visits to local theme parks and cultural experiences. Save the Children produced and distributed the 'Care Multi-Book' to help local youth caregivers independently find and utilize necessary information. There are plans to expand its distribution throughout the community in the future.
Lee Choonseok, Secretary General of the Umi Hope Foundation, stated, "We will continue to stand with youth caregivers who do not give up on their dreams and continue to take on challenges despite their caregiving responsibilities, so that they can receive even more warm encouragement and support."
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