 Paul Bell poses with his Harley Davidson motorcycle. / Korea Times |
By John Redmond
A charity event for local organization "Home of Love" will take place at the Woodstock Bar in Itaewon on Oct. 6 beginning at 10 p.m.
The Home of Love has been in existence for over 48 years looking after handicapped and mentally disabled people.
The event was organized by Paul Bell, a member of the local chapter of the American Steel Motorcycle Club.
Bell expressed admiration for the work these organizations do and noted their struggle for funding.
“I also understand this is one live-in facility across Korea but key about it and I am sure with others is, most of what they have is by donations either by churches and others. The facility I am sponsoring is needing basic items like rice and canned food goods,” said Bell to The Korea Times.
“This is a charity event for the awareness of Koreans who have exceptional challenges and a facility that has helped care for, and provided love, patience, religious healing, and training which has led to full social integration and meaning for over 700 plus people.”
The Home of Love located at 450-12 Sinnea -Dong, Jungnang-gu, Seoul and is hidden away from the public eye.
“Public opinion is changing and the Korean government is doing more as far as awareness and support but has a long way to go. The Home of Love has continually operated against all odds and is in need of basic items such as wheel chairs, tools, and food.”
Paul has been in Korea since 1996 and sees the government need to address such issues.
“There is a lack of government outreach and disability access in many places in Seoul. There is still a stigma associated with these issues.”
The Woodstock Bar is on the main street in Itaewon opposite Dunkin Donuts. To get there leave Itaewon station exit 2 and walk about 200 yards. Woodstock is on the top floor on the left.
