Aug. 26–Sept. 8
The city of Paju, led by Mayor Son Bae-chan, will accept additional applications for its 2026 organic produce support program for pregnant women from Wednesday through Sept. 8, aiming to promote maternal health and expand consumption of eco-friendly agricultural products.
The additional round is being held to fill slots that went unfilled during the initial registration period.
The program provides pregnant women with packages of organic produce and processed organic food to encourage healthy eating, while supporting the growth of eco-friendly farming and the local economy.
Eligibility extends to women who are pregnant as of the application date or who gave birth on or after Jan. 1, 2025, and who are registered residents of Paju living in the city. However, those already receiving support through the community health promotion program's nutrition-plus initiative or the agricultural food voucher program for pregnant households are excluded.
Selected participants will receive 240,000 won ($172) in annual subsidies toward organic produce purchases, with a personal contribution of 48,000 won required. Eligible items include organic crops, pesticide-free produce, organic livestock products and processed organic foods, all of which can be ordered through an online shopping platform.
Applications can be submitted through Ecomall, an integrated online shopping mall for the program. Those who have difficulty applying online may visit their local community administrative welfare center with required documents, including proof of pregnancy or birth.
The city will verify applicants' eligibility before selecting recipients. If applications exceed available slots, recipients will be chosen by lottery through the Ecomall system.
Song Ho-cheol, head of the urban agriculture division, said the program is designed to create a healthy food environment for pregnant women and their unborn children. "We hope many pregnant women will apply, experience the benefits of organic produce and improve their dietary habits," he said.
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