HY announced on June 30 that it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Ministry of Health to prevent social isolation. The signing ceremony, held on June 29 at the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry, was attended by key figures including HY CEO Byeong-kyu and Minister of Health Jeong Eun-kyeong.
The agreement aims to connect public welfare systems with private distribution infrastructure to identify at-risk groups early. According to the Ministry of Health's "2024 Survey on the Status of Deaths from Social Isolation," the number of deaths from social isolation rose to 3,924 last year, a 7.2% increase from 3,661 the previous year. As the proportion of single-person households rises and more individuals experience isolation, the need for public-private collaboration to identify at-risk households has become increasingly urgent.
Under the agreement, HY will utilize its network of over 11,000 Fresh Managers nationwide to check on vulnerable households. If any signs of crisis are detected during regular deliveries, they will report through the Ministry of Health's mobile app, "Welfare Crisis Alert," to ensure that necessary support is provided through the public welfare system. Additionally, promotional activities will be conducted using consumer touchpoints, such as product leaflets, to raise awareness of the Ministry's isolation prevention initiatives and campaigns.
Fresh Managers, who work on the front lines, play a crucial role in monitoring the well-being of elderly individuals living alone and preventing social isolation. In January, Tak Jeong-sook, a Fresh Manager, received an award from the Gwangjin District Office in Seoul for her quick response in discovering a case of social isolation. Previously, in December, Lee Hyun-sook, another Fresh Manager, was recognized with a Minister of Health award for her contributions to identifying at-risk households and preventing social isolation.
HY CEO Byeong-kyu stated, "We feel a great responsibility in taking on the role of checking on our neighbors in need. We will work closely with the Ministry of Health to do our utmost in preventing social isolation and identifying households at risk of social isolation."
Meanwhile, HY has been continuously utilizing its nationwide distribution infrastructure to build a social safety net. Recently, it has collaborated with the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, the Seoul Regional Postal Service, and the Seoul Taekwondo Association to conduct activities aimed at preventing crimes along children's commuting routes, further contributing to community safety and welfare.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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