Gwangju Buk-gu District Offers Customized Support for At-Risk Youth to Foster Independence

Support in Eight Key Areas Including Daily Living and Academics
Applications Accepted Until January 30

Gwangju Buk-gu District is launching a comprehensive, customized support system to help adolescents who are marginalized due to social and economic difficulties achieve stable independence and grow into healthy members of society.

On January 12, Gwangju Buk-gu District announced that it will be accepting applications for the "Special Support Project for At-Risk Youth" until January 30.

This project targets adolescents aged 9 to 24 from households with an income at or below 100% of the median income. Specifically, it focuses on out-of-school youth, adolescents who do not receive substantial protection from guardians, and reclusive youth.

A total budget of 100 million won will be allocated to provide tailored financial support or goods for youth across eight areas: daily living, health, academics, independence, counseling, legal matters, and activities. The support period is up to one year, with the possibility of a one-time extension depending on circumstances.

Applications can be submitted not only by the adolescents themselves or their guardians, but also by social workers and youth counselors assisting them. Applications may be made by visiting the local administrative welfare center or through the online "Bokjiro" welfare portal.

After the application deadline, Buk-gu District plans to confirm the recipients by the end of February following an income assessment and a resolution by the Youth Welfare Review Committee. Selected adolescents will receive monthly benefits at the end of each month to be used for customized services.

Moon In, Mayor of Buk-gu District, stated, "This project was established to address the real-life concerns and challenges faced by youth, who are the future of our community," adding, "We will continue to develop various support measures so that young people can pursue their dreams and grow up healthy without giving up."