On the occasion of Christmas and New Year celebrations, the Coordinating Committee of Armenian Social Welfare Organizations organized a gathering for 200 underprivileged and deprived elderly that are assisted by Armenian social institutions. The event took place on Tuesday, January 12, 2012 in the “Yertcho Samuelian – Yerakouyn” hall of the Armenian Prelacy.
In an opening speech, Mrs. Maral Harboyan said that the older generation has much wisdom and experience that should be passed on to the younger generation. Then, students from four Armenian schools had presentations including songs, poetry readings, and dances. The elderly were entertained by Mrs. Karmen Ajemian who sang Armenian national songs with the accompaniment of Mr. Georgig Delalian on the drums.
During the event, the representatives of the three Armenian churches spoke to the elderly. They said that it is a blessing to honor the senior generation and thanked the younger representatives of the community for caring. Then, together they cut the cake which was provided by the Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU).
The celebration ended with the distribution of presents by Santa Claus. The gifts had been offered by the Municipality of Bourj Hammoud and “Sesitex” institution. Women volunteers helped the elderly in distributing the meals, cake, fruit and coffee.
All of the attendees expressed their happiness and gratitude for the care and support of the community institutions and volunteer workers.
Read a related article published in The Aztag Daily (in Armenian).
