Geunyang Dream food support program expands in South Korean cities

The ‘Geunyang Dream’ program, designed to provide immediate food and daily necessities to citizens facing sudden economic crises, is expanding its operations in South Korean cities.

In Andong, the service is increasing from twice a week to three times a week starting in September. The program targets individuals who may fall outside traditional welfare systems, such as those with unregistered residency, debt issues, or undocumented migrants. Participants can receive food packages valued at approximately 20,000 won without needing to prove income or assets. The city is also utilizing a ‘visiting service’ to identify vulnerable households that may have difficulty accessing information or physical locations.

Similarly, the Chungju General Social Welfare Center has announced an expansion of the program to three days a week to better support residents in Chungju. The initiative allows for rapid access to supplies without complex application procedures. Beyond immediate relief, the program serves as a gateway to long-term support; repeat users are connected with professional counseling and public or private welfare services to address their specific needs. Since its pilot phase, the program has assisted thousands of residents, acting as a critical social safety net for those in urgent need.