Disabled individual Park Mi-ja: 'Happy to buy food with money I earned'

Park Mi-ja, a 52-year-old woman with an intellectual disability, expressed her profound happiness at living independently in her own apartment, a dream she long held. She shared her experiences at a 'Uri Jip' (Our Home) project event in Gwangju, which supports disabled individuals transitioning from group facilities to independent living.

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I wanted to live in my own home, just as I wished, someday.

The 'Uri Jip' project, initiated by the former Gwangju Metropolitan City as a pilot program in 2024, assists disabled individuals in securing and managing their own homes. Participants are assessed for their self-sufficiency potential and then supported with housing contracts, furniture purchases, utility payments, meal planning, health management, and employment.

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The most satisfying thing is living in an apartment under my own name. I am happy because I can pay the management fees with the money I earned and buy the food I want to eat and the things I need myself.

Park, who works at a vocational rehabilitation facility for the disabled, finds immense satisfaction in paying her own rent and purchasing food and necessities with her earnings. "The most satisfying thing is living in an apartment under my own name," she said. However, she also reflected on past challenges, admitting to impulsive spending that once depleted 10 million won in a short period. She now emphasizes the necessity of financial planning for independent disabled individuals, with support from the 'Uri Jip' program.

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I had impulsive spending tendencies and spent 10 million won in a short period. Now, with the help of the 'Uri Jip' teachers, I am saving money. I urge independent disabled individuals to manage their money systematically.

Choi Sun-hwa, who also lives in public rental housing through the 'Uri Jip' project, shared similar sentiments. She described the joy of decorating her own space and realizing that a home is more than just a place to sleep. While she finds living alone empowering, she also acknowledged the need for assistance during hospitalizations or difficult times. Jo Sung-ho, another participant, overcame initial fear and loneliness after leaving a facility, gaining confidence through employment and support services. He is now preparing to study social welfare at university.

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The house is not just a place to sleep, but a place where I can live comfortably and happily.