The recent discovery of the Incheon Sahalin Korean Welfare Center last month shed light on the challenges faced by elderly Korean immigrants living in the facility. The center, home to 72 Sahalin Koreans who returned to Korea, is characterized by its quiet hallways and residents with an average age of 85. Many of the residents face mobility issues, with some confined to their rooms. Additionally, over half of the residents require significant care, with 22 suffering from dementia and over 30 dealing with other health issues.
As the years pass, the need for care among Sahalin Korean immigrants continues to grow, yet the welfare center struggles to meet their needs. Typically, long-term care facilities are required to have one caregiver for every 2.1 elderly residents, but the center falls short with only 14 caregivers. Despite the city of Incheon mandating a total staff of 30 employees, the center currently operates with only around 25 staff members.
A spokesperson for the welfare center expressed concerns about the dwindling budget, which has led to a shortage of staff and resources. With an annual shortfall of approximately 60 million won in meal expenses alone, the center struggles to provide adequate nutrition to its residents, many of whom rely on basic livelihood support.
In response to these challenges, Donga Ilbo initiated a campaign to raise funds for the welfare center. A portion of the donations collected through the campaign will be allocated towards addressing the center’s meal shortages. Approximately 24 million won, including the campaign proceeds, will be used to support the residents‘ meal expenses. The remaining funds will be earmarked for the welfare of Sahalin Korean immigrants who have yet to return to their homeland.
The campaign aims to provide practical assistance to Sahalin Korean immigrants who have faced hardships and displacement. Donors who contribute to the cause can rest assured that their donations will be managed in accordance with the Donation Act, with full transparency regarding fund usage provided by the Korean Red Cross.
Through this initiative, Donga Ilbo seeks to shed light on the stories of our neighbors who were forced to leave their homeland and provide tangible support to those in need. By leveraging digital storytelling platforms, the campaign aims to engage the public and raise awareness about the challenges faced by Sahalin Korean immigrants.
In conclusion, the campaign serves as a beacon of hope for Sahalin Korean immigrants, offering them a lifeline in their time of need. By coming together as a community, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have endured so much.