Shincheonji Volunteers Bring Heatwave Relief to Gwangju and Jeonnam

As Korea’s summer brought a mix of scorching heat and sudden downpours, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Gwangju-Jeonnam Union (headed by President Yoo Jae-uk) stepped in to protect the health and safety of citizens across the region.

From July 5 to August 17, volunteers carried out a large-scale campaign that combined refreshing water distribution, customized summer safety kits, and community-based prevention campaigns—all designed to bring relief and support to locals struggling through the season’s extreme weather.

Beating the Heat with 10,000 Bottles of Water

The campaign began in early July at Usan Neighborhood Park in Gwangju, where volunteers first handed out ice-cold bottled water to residents and nearby market vendors.

Encouraged by the warm response, the effort expanded to major locations across the region, including Gwangju Songjeong Station, U-Square Bus Terminal, Jangseong Lake Park, Damyang Market, Mokpo Station, Yeosu Yi Sun-sin Square, Suncheon Arrejang Market, Songha Greenway Park, Gwangyang Five-Day Market, and more.

In total, over 10,000 bottles of water were distributed. For many, it was a timely gift of refreshment:

• A cleaning worker at Mokpo Bus Terminal shared, “I was exhausted from the heat, but the ice water and cooling sleeves from volunteers gave me real strength.”

• A visiting family from Ulsan expressed gratitude after receiving water in Yeosu, saying it made their holiday outing much more comfortable.

Safety Kits and Education for a Healthier Summer

Beyond water distribution, the volunteers prepared summer safety kits containing essentials such as salt candies, glucose packs, hand fans, cooling sleeves, mosquito repellent, and even fire prevention outlet covers. Informational leaflets on heatstroke, food poisoning, and electrical safety were also included.

Each branch tailored activities to local needs:

• Mokpo Branch added a playful “1-Minute Fishing Game,” delighting children and families.

• Yeosu Branch provided tips on preventing heat-related illnesses and summer food poisoning.

• Suncheon Branch focused on safe electricity use during peak summer power demand.

• Gwangyang Branch combined safety campaigns with a market revitalization initiative, handing out fans to shoppers and encouraging local purchases—much to the appreciation of vendors.

One citizen in Mokpo said, “The weather had me feeling down, but the game and the gifts lifted my mood. The mosquito repellent and cooling sleeves were exactly what I needed.”

Standing with Citizens in Times of Challenge

The Gwangju-Jeonnam Union emphasized that these activities were not just seasonal events but part of a larger mission:

“Throughout the summer, our branches have worked in bus terminals, plazas, parks, and markets to care for both citizens and tourists. We will continue providing ongoing support to ensure health, safety, and community well-being.”

Beyond these campaigns, the volunteer group has also been active in flood recovery and disaster relief efforts, proving their role as a vital part of regional resilience and care.

Love in Action, Even in the Hottest Summer

Through simple yet meaningful acts—handing out water, providing kits, raising awareness, and supporting local economies—the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Gwangju-Jeonnam Union once again demonstrated that community care is strongest when people come together to serve.

 Source: https://vo.la/2AuDYr