Happy Lunar New Year Holidays Together With Global Family 2025
Scholarship to International Students from Eight Countries & Essential Goods to 1,600 Underprivileged and Multicultural Families Across Korea
As the hopeful New Year of 2025 begins, the Intl. WeLoveU Foundation (hereinafter referred to as WeLoveU) launched its traditional initiative, “Happy Lunar New Year Holidays Together With Global Family 2025.” United by a shared commitment to extend a mother’s love to those in need, members nationwide participated in this meaningful effort. From January 20 to 23, they collaborated with local governments to donate daily necessities to 1,600 underprivileged and multicultural households across 62 regions. Each set of donations included 23 essential items, such as groceries like red pepper paste and glass noodles, as well as laundry and kitchen detergents.
On January 23, WeLoveU held the event “Happy Lunar New Year Holidays Together With Global Family 2025” at the WeLoveU Pangyo Chapter, Seongnam, Republic of Korea. The event aimed to ensure that no one is left behind during the holiday, inviting foreign residents in Korea to offer them comfort and love as they navigate life in a new land. The event welcomed around 300 attendees, including Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah, board members, Korea Association for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (KAPCAN) President Yi Bae-keun, and multicultural families and international students from 24 countries, including Nepal, Taiwan, Laos, Malaysia, Mongolia, the U.S., Ecuador, Uzbekistan, and Kenya. Diplomatic representatives such as Lao Ambassador to Korea H.E. Songkane Luangmuninthone, and Ecuadorian Deputy Head of Mission to Korea Orlin Madrid attended the event.
Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah gave a welcoming address, saying, “New Year’s Day, a traditional Korean holiday, is a meaningful time for family and neighbors to gather and renew their resolutions for the New Year.” She expressed hope that the event would provide a warm and embracing experience. She added, “Each of you, with your diverse cultures and traditions, makes Korean society richer and more vibrant. I hope the new connections and experiences you gain here will become cherished memories, and I always support your growth.”
Lao Ambassador H.E. Songkan Luangmuninthone commended WeLoveU’s practical and multidirectional efforts, remarking, “This event goes beyond celebrating a Korean holiday—it strengthens global solidarity and love.” KAPCAN President Yi Bae-keun also expressed his appreciation, emphasizing the universal nature of maternal love, “Across cultures, a mother’s love symbolizes wisdom and courage. I deeply appreciate how this event shares that love, offering strength and encouragement to our global neighbors.”
Following this, a symbolic donation board was unveiled on stage, marking the support extended to 1,600 underprivileged and multicultural families. The event also featured a scholarship award ceremony for international students. With the goal of promoting the spirit of Korean holidays—sharing and compassion—while fostering the academic growth of future global leaders, WeLoveU provided a total of KRW 48 million (approx. USD 32,650) in educational support to 24 students from eight countries. Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah presented scholarship certificates to international students from Vietnam, Honduras, and Angola, and other nations, offering encouragement and heartfelt handshakes one by one.
Afterward, the event continued with a warm banquet and various Korean cultural experiences, carefully prepared by WeLoveU members. Festive dishes, including tteokguk (rice cake soup), galbi (grilled short ribs), japchae (stir-fried glass noodles), and sanjeok (skewered meat and vegetables) were served. Participants enjoyed a warm meal together, engaging in friendly conversations. They then joined in various experience booths, such as tteokmechigi (making rice cakes), making kites, Jegichagi (Korean shuttlecock kicking), and Yutnori (a traditional board game). The hanbok experience zone was a favorite among attendees, as foreign guests selected and donned traditional Korean attire, capturing memorable moments in photos and videos. Laughter and the rhythmic sounds of rice cake pounding filled the venue, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
Mikov Abdelaziz, who has lived abroad for a long time since leaving his home in Morocco, said, “Having studied and worked in various countries for many years, I often felt that it was difficult to integrate into society as a foreigner due to language, cultural, and traditional differences. In this regard, I truly respect WeLoveU’s dedication to supporting foreigners and, above all, its commitment to embracing everyone with unconditional love.” Batsukh Javkhlan, a Mongolian resident of Korea for 24 years, said, “Living far from home, I sometimes feel homesick, and language and cultural differences can lead to misunderstandings. Opportunities like this event, which introduce Korean culture and foster mutual understanding, can greatly reduce difficulties and conflicts.”
Lim Hyo-jeong, a WeLoveU volunteer from Seoul, said, “Although we all come from different backgrounds, we feel that we can become one through the universal theme of a mother’s love. I hope that everyone here today forgets loneliness, embraces the warmth of home, and starts the New Year with renewed energy.” Julissa Castro from Honduras (Ewha Womans University Graduate School) expressed her aspiration, “Thank you for the scholarship support. As a sociology student focusing on cultural exchange, I look forward to participating in WeLoveU’s various volunteer initiatives that contribute to social development and harmony.”
Foreign diplomats present at the event took the opportunity to encourage their country’s students while expressing gratitude for WeLoveU’s efforts. Orlin Madrid, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Ecuadorian Embassy in Korea, said, “It was great to meet Ecuadorian students here today. I sincerely appreciate WeLoveU’s generosity, and hope to see more events like this in the future.”
WeLoveU’s efforts to foster global solidarity and spread warmth
will continue throughout the New Year.
Opening Waterways, Nurturing Hope
On August 13, WeLoveU members visited Republica de Honduras School in San Salvador, El Salvador. The visit aimed to monitor the water tank and purification system donated by WeLoveU in May last year to ensure proper operation.
| Functionality | Normal |
| Cracks & Leaks | None |
| Foreign Substances & Sediments | None |
| Odor, Taste, & Color | Normal |
| Water Quality Inspection | Conducted annually |
| Cleaning & Disinfection | Not performed |
The school principal expressed gratitude, noting that the school’s drinking water and hygiene issues had significantly improved and that the number of students missing school due to water shortages had greatly decreased.
During the visit, WeLoveU members carefully inspected the facilities and spoke with school officials to identify areas requiring follow-up support. They found that the water pump had to be manually operated each time, making it inconvenient to use. Additionally, the underground reservoir had not been cleaned regularly, posing sanitation concerns.
On November 25, WeLoveU members returned to the school to provide follow-up support. They thoroughly cleaned the underground reservoir and installed a check valve in the underground pipeline connected to the water pump to automatically regulate water flow and prevent backflow.
“I’m so thankful to WeLoveU for remembering our school. Last year, you installed a water pump, and today, you not only installed a check valve for the pump but also took care of the reservoir maintenance. Thanks to you, our students now have access to cleaner water. On behalf of the school, I sincerely thank WeLoveU for their thoughtful management and maintenance of our water system.”
Jose Transito Garcia Gomez, Principal of Republica de Honduras School
“Thanks to WeLoveU’s maintenance of the water pump and tank, our children can drink clean water. As a parent, I sincerely appreciate your efforts.”
Parent
“I’m so glad that WeLoveU has taken care of the water pump and cleaned the neglected reservoir. Drinking clean water will help us stay healthy, and that makes me truly happy.”
Student
WeLoveU will continue opening pathways to hope by ensuring access to clean water for children with the heart of a mother’s love.
Light the Lamp of Learning
In Togo, Africa, where families often have many children, financial difficulties
frequently prevent them from sending all their children to school.
Given these circumstances, pursuing higher education becomes even more
challenging. In particular, students from disadvantaged backgrounds
often forgo their university education, even if they are accepted
into affordable public universities, due to the inability to pay the entrance fee.
The annual tuition at Togo National University
is typically 25,000 CFA Francs, (approx. 40 USD).
To ensure that students in Togo have access to education, WeLoveU
has stepped in to provide support. After discussions with officials
from Aflao-Gakli City Hall (Gulf 5) in the DAGL of the Maritime Region,
WeLoveU decided to award scholarships covering one year of tuition
to students from vulnerable households admitted to the national university.
On November 15, a scholarship award ceremony was held at City Hall,
where students arrived with eager anticipation. That day, WeLoveU provided
scholarships to 72 first-year students at the University of Lomé through City Hall.
The mayor, who attended the ceremony, expressed gratitude to WeLoveU
and called for continued collaboration.
Kossi Agbenyega Aboka, Mayor of Aflao-Gakli
“You’ve sown the seeds of humanity here. These students will be the leaders of tomorrow, serving as key pillars in shaping the future of society. Blessings to you, WeLoveU.”
Kossi Agbenyega Aboka, Mayor of Aflao-Gakli
WeLoveU members encouraged the students to keep the lamp of learning
burning brightly and grow into wise and knowledgeable leaders.
WeLoveU’s educational support, which fosters students’ learning
and the development of local talent, will continue.
‘They Will Love Reading’
Many people read e-books today. While some predict
they will replace printed books, print still offers many advantages.
Reading and turning pages improve hand-eye coordination and vocabulary development.
Without distractions, readers can fully immerse themselves in the book’s content.
The book’s scent and texture deepen sensory and emotional experiences.
On November 7, a small book fair took place
at Flower City School No. 54 in Rochester, New York. WeLoveU
donated 344 new books to 257 children at two schools in Rochester.
The children who participated the book fair chose books
they were interested in and enjoyed a meaningful time
discussing them with WeLoveU members, parents, and teachers.
The DRHS Commissioner City of Rochester and interim superintendent
at the Rochester City School District were also present,
offering their support and encouragement for WeLoveU’s donation.
That day, the City of Rochester and the School District presented WeLoveU
with a certificate of appreciation and a declaration, thanking the organization
for its contribution to the children’s growth and development.
Demario Strickland, Interim Superintendent at the Rochester City School District
“Books can take children anywhere. Reading is like a journey of the mind, allowing one to travel to the land of imagination without any cost. WeLoveU’s efforts to foster a love of reading and help parents recognize its importance are truly inspiring.”
Demario Strickland, Interim Superintendent at the Rochester City School District
Dr. Shirley J.A. Green, DRHS Commissioner of the City of Rochester and Former Principal of Flower City School No. 54.
“It is essential for children to have books they can enjoy independently. The children who received books at this event will develop a love for reading.”
Dr. Shirley J.A. Green, DRHS Commissioner of the City of Rochester and Former Principal of Flower City School No. 54.
Turning the pages, children spread their wings of imagination
and shape the world of their dreams.
The book donation will ignite their interest in books
and inspire a love for reading.
WeLoveU’s book donations, which support child development,
will continue moving forward.
A Warm Helping Hand for Shree Saraswati Basic School in Nepal
On August 14, the educational environment enhancement project
at Shree Saraswati Basic School in Bhaktapur, Nepal, came to a close.
In May and June, WeLoveU collaborated with the school management
committee and local officials to launch an educational environment
enhancement project aimed at providing students with a better learning space.
Shree Saraswati Basic School Educational Environment Enhancement Project
Repair of School Walls
and Platform
Installation of a
School Signboard
Installation of Fans
From July 29 to August 14, WeLoveU members repaired the walls and
platform damaged by the 2015 earthquake and installed signboards
at both entrances to make the school easier to locate.
To ensure students can study comfortably even in the scorching heat,
two fans were installed in each classroom, along with additional fans in key
areas of the school, including the teacher’s office, bringing the total to 25 fans.
On August 11, the school facilities were organized and cleaned.
On the 14, members arrived early at the school and thoroughly cleaned
the courtyard, which had been cluttered by a sudden downpour.
At the completion ceremony, prominent figures from the school and
the community participated and conveyed their gratitude to WeLoveU.
Babukaji Dangol, Ward Chairman of Madhyapur Thimi Municipality
“The Intl. WeLoveU Foundation has played a key role in ensuring a bright future for students in this area. They have worked diligently on flood prevention for the Manohara River near the school and have generously donated numerous supplies. We are deeply grateful to the WeLoveU members and will also do our utmost to enhance the learning environment for students.”
Babukaji Dangol, Ward Chairman of Madhyapur Thimi Municipality
Dhana Giri, Senior Assistant of Education, Youth and Sports Section, Madhyapur Thimi City Hall
“WeLoveU’s programs have made a significant impact on enhancing the quality of education for students. The government is also investing in the education sector, and the city council is dedicated to the development of schools. We would like to express our sincere gratitude once again for the support of the WeLoveU Foundation.”
Dhana Giri, Senior Assistant of Education, Youth and Sports Section, Madhyapur Thimi City Hall
Indira Mahat, Principal of Shree Saraswati Basic School
“With the support of WeLoveU, we were able to solve several issues at the school. Rebuilding the school walls helped prevent the frequent thefts that had occurred. The members also contributed to improving the environment by cleaning the school and painting the classrooms, and they generously donated fans. We are deeply grateful to WeLoveU Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah and its members for their dedication to the students’ bright future. We kindly request your continued support.”
Indira Mahat, Principal of Shree Saraswati Basic School
As the school signboards were unveiled and fireworks burst in celebration,
cheers and applause filled the air. The children expressed their gratitude to WeLoveU with a heartfelt performance.
The educational environment enhancement project fosters students’
motivation to learn and strengthens ties between the school
and the local community, creating a better learning environment.
WeLoveU remains committed to enhancing educational conditions,
ensuring students have a safe and comfortable place to learn.
May the heartwarming support extended to Shree Saraswati Basic School
shine brightly on the children’s future.
P.S.
Along with improving the educational environment
at Shree Saraswati Basic School, WeLoveU donated bamboo supports
to help prevent flooding from the Manohara River.
Following the completion ceremony, the school wall collapsed again
due to flooding, prompting repairs from October 21 to 31.
For a Healthy Tomorrow for Children in Haiti
Haiti, an island country in the Caribbean, has a very poor educational
environment. Many children are unable to receive even basic education due to
economic and social hardships, which requires an urgent need for international
support. This situation is even more serious for vulnerable and at-risk children.
The members of the East U.S. Chapter of the Intl. WeLoveU Foundation
partnered with For The Kids, a welfare foundation that supports
the livelihood, education, and healthcare of vulnerable children in Haiti.
On September 29, at a private school in Turgeau, Port-au-Prince, they provided
school bags, school supplies, and hygiene kits to 300 vulnerable and at-risk children.
During the event, members interacted with the children through various games,
cheering them on for a brighter and healthier tomorrow.
🎁 Providing School Bags and School Supplies 🎁
🧩 Play Festival 🧩
Nesmy Manigat, Former Minister of Education of Haiti
“While working as the Minister of Education for five years, I became aware of the challenges that children and their parents face with each new school term. Recently, many children cannot attend school due to famine and other problems. That’s why supporting their education is immensely meaningful. I hope organizations like WeLoveU continue to extend a helping hand. Schools are where children and their ancestors’ dreams come alive. Attending school keeps hope alive and fosters national progress. I sincerely thank WeLoveU for their continued efforts.”
Nesmy Manigat, Former Minister of Education of Haiti
Woodley Jean Michel, General Manager of Transco & Logistics SA
“I’m happy to join WeLoveU and For the Kids in this effort. I came here to help the children as well. WeLoveU provided warm meals, backpacks, and more to help children attend school before the new term began. This is extraordinary work and a significant contribution to Haitian society. I sincerely thank Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah and WeLoveU members for leading this work. I look forward to meting you again.”
Woodley Jean Michel, General Manager of Transco & Logistics SA
WeLoveU hope that the children of Haiti
can actively participate in diverse educational activities,
design their own futures, and run toward a brighter tomorrow.
Giving Comfort and Hope Through Book Donation
On September 11, 2024, a special gift arrived at Duke Children’s Hospital
in Durham, NC.—children’s books prepared by the Intl. WeLoveU Foundation.
To bring warmth and hope to children staying in the hospital,
WeLoveU members and local citizens joined forces to donate 350 books.
Reading books has a positive impact
on children’s treatment and development.
The Power of Reading
Emotional Stability & Stress Relief
Alleviating fear and anxiety experienced in the hospital, and reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness caused by being cut off from the outside world.
Psychological Therapy &
Attention Enhancement
Helping maintain focus in an environment where long treatments may lead to decreased attention span, and improving concentration and attentiveness through immersive reading.
Cognitive Development &
Language Skills Improvement
Enhancing critical thinking, imagination, and problem-solving skills, while also supporting academic achievement after discharge.
Empathy Development
Providing indirect exposure to diverse social situations and emotions unavailable in the hospital and strengthening empathy and emotional expression skills.
On the day WeLoveU visited the hospital, a small book fair was held.
Children, together with their parents, enjoyed selecting, touching,
and reading books. For a moment, they escaped their hospital rooms
and immersed themselves in the world of imagination.
Their faces lit up with smiles, and their eyes gleamed with curiosity.
Chelsea Cook, Ward 3 Council Member, Durham City Council
“I love books, which is why I find WeLoveU’s support so incredible. I’d like to take this moment to thank Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah and all the WeLoveU members. I’m honor to be part of this initiative alongside Duke Children’s Hospital and Intl. WeLoveU Foundation. Thank you for your dedication.”
Chelsea Cook, Ward 3 Council Member, Durham City Council
Dr. Ann M. Reed, Chair, Department of Pediatrics and Physician-in-Chief, Duke Children's Hospital
“When you think about that type of activity (reading books), it’s very calming and soothing. Through books, children get to think, imagine, and take their mind away from why they are here.”
Dr. Ann M. Reed, Chair, Department of Pediatrics and Physician-in-Chief, Duke Children's Hospital
The power of a book is greater than we imagine.
It plants hope in children’s hearts, gives wings to their imagination,
and becomes a comforting companion on their long journey to recovery.
WeLoveU will continue donating books to bring comfort and hope to children.