Description
Following the 1988 Spitak Earthquake, thousands of people were left homeless in the city of Gyumri. Many of these families took refuge in the overseas shipping containers (domiks) that were shipped into Armenia loaded with humanitarian relief supplies. Although more than a quarter century has passed since the earthquake, this depressive reality still remains. Currently, more than 1,800 families still live in domiks scattered throughout Gyumri in extreme poverty. Many of them are unable to provide for their familys’ needs including warm clothes, nutritious food, heat and electricity for their homes and other basic necessities.
During his visit to Armenia several summers ago Dustin Hochmuth, one of the SERVICE Armenia 2017 participants, and several of his peers, witnessed these horrible conditions and decided to assemble packets for 10 families in dire need of everyday necessities and non-perishable food items. This effort was led by one of the SERVICE Armenia 2017 coordinators, Stephanie Nersesyan. Following the success of that effort, Paros has continued implementing this project on a regular basis.Â
Our goal is to help 100 families in need over summer 2024. Each packet will cost $50 and will include basic staples including personal hygiene products, non-perishable food items such as rice, flour, sugar, salt, oil, and pasta. The packets will also include fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy products and canned meats. Â Donations in any amount will help this important cause
The Need
Currently, more than 1,800 families still live in domiks scattered throughout Gyumri in extreme poverty. Many of them are unable to provide for their familys’ needs including warm clothes, nutritious food, heat and electricity for their homes and other basic necessities.
Short Term Impact
In the short term, 100 families will receive packets filled with basic staples including personal hygiene products, non-perishable food items and fresh food items.
Long Term Impact
In long term, the Armenian diaspora will be exposed to the harsh living conditions in Gyumri through this important project.
Sponsors Benefits
All project sponsors will be recognized on all relevant press regarding this project and on The Paros Foundation’s website. The Paros Foundation can arrange a visit to Gyumri when you are in Armenia.
Updates: Images & Information
SERVICE Armenia 2025 participants assembled another 50 packs and distributed several. The rest will be distributed with the help of Vahan and his crew (from the Shirak Center NGO, a Paros partner organization).
SERVICE Armenia 2024 assembled 50 food packs, and distributed 26 packs in person. The remaining packs will be delivered by Vahan and his crew (from the Shirak Center NGO, a Paros partner organization) today bringing the total to 50. Additionally, four more packs were distributed by Paros donors including the Berejikian (California) and O’Neil families (Maryland).
Our Donors (18)
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Ms. Gale Patricia Valentini
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Anonymous
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Rebecca Rafaelian Caruolo & Family
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Mr. & Mrs. Steven & Laura Derderian
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Anonymous
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Mr. & Mrs. Hagop & Sona Dakessian
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Mr. & Mrs. Richard & Kathy Mouradjian
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Anonymous
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Anonymous
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Ms. Gale Patricia Valentini
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Anonymous
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Anonymous
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Mr. David Barsamian
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Mr. & Mrs. Ronald & Vivian Nazeley
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Anonymous
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Mr. Hayk Ghulijanyan
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Mrs. Aregak Bagirian
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Mr. & Mrs. Allen & Rosie Nisanyan