Target raised 20% from last year; sharing campaign runs through Feb. 14 — cash and in-kind donations accepted; donors of 1 million won or more to be inducted into hall of fame
Gangbuk-gu in Seoul has launched a campaign to raise 1.2 billion won ($898,000) to help low-income residents through the winter.
The district office announced Friday that it held an unveiling ceremony for the "Hope Ondol 2027 Warm Winter" thermometer tower at the district office's planning situation room on Thursday.
District Mayor Jeong Chang-su attended the event alongside National Assembly members, Seoul city and district council members, and honorary ambassadors. The campaign's launch was marked by a ceremony appointing honorary ambassadors, a donation terminal tagging performance, and the presentation of the first donation.
Organized by the Seoul branch of the Community Chest of Korea, the campaign runs for three months from Sunday through Feb. 14 next year. The fundraising target of 1.2 billion won represents a 20 percent increase from last year's goal of 1 billion won.
Funds and donated goods will be distributed to low-income households earning up to 120 percent of the median income standard, as well as to social welfare organizations, to help vulnerable residents get through the winter.
A large thermometer tower will be installed at the Samgaksan Fountain to display the campaign's progress in real time. The temperature reading on the tower will rise by 10 degrees for every 10 percent of the goal reached, allowing residents to track the results of their giving directly.
Donations may be made in cash or in kind. Cash contributions can be made by depositing into a Community Chest account, visiting the district office or a neighborhood community center, or paying by credit card, bank transfer or mobile payment via QR code. Tapping a donation terminal contributes 3,000 won per tap.
Accepted in-kind donations include kimchi, rice, daily necessities, gift certificates, briquettes, and clothing and sundries. However, clothing and sundries that are not individually packaged, as well as secondhand goods, are not eligible.
The district will send donors a newsletter feature and a letter of appreciation. Those who give 1 million won or more will be listed in the "Donor Hall of Fame" on the district office's website, and donors who contribute for three consecutive years will receive a gold rating. Outstanding donors will also be presented with commendations and plaques of appreciation.
"Sharing the gift of a warm winter with neighbors in need is what makes our community stronger," District Mayor Jeong said. "We will work to spread a culture of giving and eliminate welfare blind spots so that the generous hearts of residents, businesses and organizations can reach those who need help most."
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