Gyumri, the heart of Armenian culture

Gyumri, an Armenian town which has been known for ages as a place for trades and arts, by Armenians is called the heart of lands culture. Unfortunately a powerful earthquake in 1988 has destroyed its look and shaked up its soul. Time has passed and the world has almost forgotten the 1988 year catastrophe. After twenty years Gyumri still remains an earthquake recovery zone. According to the statistics Gyumri registers the lowest rates of economic growth and highest rates of unemployment throughout Armenia.

Today Red Cross group in Gyumri has still been stretching arms towards vulnerable groups of people in the town: refugees and survivors of the earthquake who remained living in poor conditions. Through the “Psycho – social program” with the help of energetic young volunteers these people have been given attention and help when needed.

During several years volunteers have also developed an idea to establish a club for the children from the poorest families in one of the town regions called ”Avtokajan”. We fell in love with the idea of establishing the club “Ray of Hope” and we worked with volunteers to start up the activity. In the middle of April we have an openning of the club. All best for volunteers and “Ray of Hope” children!