Hope Cobblestone President Receives Ministerial Commendation for Discovering 45,000 Vulnerable Households

Lee Jae-won, president of the domestic relief NGO Hope Cobblestone, has been awarded a commendation from the Minister of Health and Welfare for his significant contributions to identifying and supporting vulnerable households. The award recognizes his efforts in discovering approximately 45,000 individuals in crisis and facilitating their integration into the public safety net.

Since establishing Hope Cobblestone in 2017, Lee has consistently visited areas with housing instability, such as 'jjokbang' (tiny rooms), 'goshiwon' (sublet rooms), and semi-basement apartments. Through these regular visits, he has proactively identified individuals and families facing hardship, acting as a crucial link to public welfare services.

Hope Cobblestone has been lauded for its innovative approach, which moves beyond traditional one-time material distributions. The organization has developed a meticulous, data-driven system for managing at-risk populations and has strengthened its integrated management framework. This has set a benchmark for private welfare delivery systems in South Korea.

"I am delighted to be recognized for my efforts in resolving the practical difficulties of the neighbors I have discovered in the field," Lee stated. "I will continue to serve as a complementary force to the public safety net, delivering warm hope to the neglected neighbors."

The commendation highlights Lee's dedication to creating a more robust and responsive welfare system, ensuring that those most in need receive consistent support and access to essential services.

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I am delighted to be recognized for my efforts in resolving the practical difficulties of the neighbors I have discovered in the field. I will continue to serve as a complementary force to the public safety net, delivering warm hope to the neglected neighbors.