Despite the dire socio-economic conditions in Aleppo, Syria, and specifically in the Nor Kiugh suburb, the ARS/Syria has been able to continue its mission of implementing humanitarian assistance to the needy thanks to the support of the Armenian Relief Society, Inc. Central Executive Board and ARS entities worldwide.
Through the initiative of the ARS, Inc. Central Executive Board, the “Hot Meal” program, which started during the initial phases of the war in October 2012, provides nutritious meals to 300 needy individuals on a weekly basis. The meal program continued despite the city’s blockade and shortage of food supplies, but had to be temporarily suspended due to the damages the ARS/Syria socio-medical center experienced during the military operations in Nor Kiugh. On June 19, 2014, through the efforts of the ARS/Syria Regional Board, the program was revived at the “Simon Vratsian” Center’s “Karni” Hall, once again providing meals to those in need twice a week.
The third phase of the “Sponsor a Syrian-Armenian Family” project of the ARS USA Eastern Region was implemented on July 3, 2014 at the “Aram Manougian” Center’s “Levon Shant” Hall. In total, $4,000 was provided to forty needy families with newborn children.
With regard to the need for on-going aid, for two consecutive years the ARS Central Executive Board has been financially assisting ARS/Syria’s shelter. On a monthly basis, 250 families receive food baskets and other significant items. On July 25, 2014, in place of baskets, the families received financial assistance.
Through the continuing support of the ARS Central Executive Board and the efforts of ARS entities worldwide, the ARS/Syria continues to reach the needy despite the challenging socio-economic conditions.
In addition to the aforementioned assistance programs, the ARS, Inc. provides financial support to the Armenian schools through the “School” fund. Also, the “Warm Home” project, initiated in 2013, provides financial assistance to supply families with fuel and help them warm their homes during the cold winter days.
The ARS Central Executive Board appreciates the fundraising activities of the ARS entities among supporters and community circles for the benefit of Syrian-Armenians and highly encourages the efforts of all ARS entities for the successful implementation of all assistance programs.
