Gangdong-gu (Mayor Lee Jung-hun) embarks on its elderly employment project that will involve 3,277 participants in 49 programs, with the largest budget of KRW 11 billion.

The elderly aged 65 and above make up 14.5% of Gangdong-gu's total population. With the aging of society, the number of elderly who desire to work is also increasing. Gangdong-gu has therefore expanded its support for the employment of senior citizens.

For this year's elderly employment project, a budget increased by KRW 2 billion from the previous year is being invested to provide jobs to 3,277 senior citizens, a rise by 127 from the previous year.

While supporting existing employment programs, Gangdong-gu is seeking to create new jobs for the elderly by identifying their various needs. Last October saw the launch of the second branch of Gangdong Senior Counseling Café, which is operated by senior citizens who have acquired a barista certificate. This year, the Café employs a total of 24 senior citizens.

In addition, Gangdong-gu has entered into an agreement with private companies to provide market-type employment programs, such as "Total Repair Service" and "Glittering Silver," which are new types of elderly employment programs. A total of 22 seniors will be selected to provide jewelry repair and simple accessory assembly services.

Other substantial employment programs currently in operation include "Senior Care by Senior" where senior citizens deliver lunches to the elderly living alone and befriend them in conversation, "Senior Telegram Messengers," Senior Elementary School Commuting Helpers," and "Gangdong Woodcraft Studio for Senior Citizens."

Participants in these programs will be assigned to various facilities including public and welfare facilities in earnest from February.

“We will continue to actively seek and support jobs and social participation opportunities suitable for senior citizens so that they can have a healthy and lively aged life,” said Gangdong-gu Mayor Lee Jung-hun.

<Related Photos>

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  Gangdong-gu Mayor Lee Jung-hun experiencing leather craft at "Gangdong Senior Raon Leather Craft Studio“ that opened last April as part of the district’s elderly employment project.

  

  Gangdong-gu Mayor Lee Jung-hun experiencing leather craft at "Gangdong Senior Raon Leather Craft Studio“ that opened last April as part of the district’s elderly employment project.