“The Armenian Relief Society and the Council office have enjoyed a close partnership over the years, and I am delighted to continue that tradition as the newly elected Councilmember in the 13th District. Our constituents will greatly benefit from the $50,000 grant that will go toward assistance on essential social services, and help bring Armenian American families closer together here in the City of Angels,” states Councilmember Mitch O’Farrell, 13th District.
While ARS Hollywood Social Services had experienced an interruption in grant funding, that had not stopped services from being offered because the office continued to be staffed by volunteers and through private donations. The new grant paves the way for normal staffing levels to accommodate the needs of the community.
“We are thankful that Councilmember O’Farrell trusts in the capacity and integrity of our organization, which is committed to meeting the needs of the diverse community in Hollywood,” said Lena Bozoyan, ARS Regional Executive Board Chairperson.
The news was delivered to ARS representatives on February 20. Councilmember O’Farrell appeared in an interview with Asbarez English Section Editor Ara Khachatourian at Horizon studios, which shares the building with ARS Social Services, and made known that he was in favor of strengthening and supporting the ARS Social Services’ Hollywood office as long as he served on the Los Angeles City Council.
Despite the dwindling resources available for social and counseling services, the ARS continues to pursue grant funding for the communities in which it serves. ARS Social Services administrators delivered presentations before the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program Advisory Committees for the City of Burbank on February 20 and the City of Glendale on February 21. Administrators are also working on a grant application submission to the City of Pasadena to continue offering services through that office.
ARS Social Services continues to need the engagement and support of the public in order to fill in gaps in funding and secure donations to offer services that are not supported by grant funding, or to provide services to residents who do not qualify for assistance. Even canned or dry foods make a dent in providing immediate assistance.
The number of cases of women and families who have needed urgent assistance to escape abuse is also on the rise. Any amount of support of ARS programs collectively can make a difference in the betterment of the lives of those who seek assistance.
To donate funds for those in need, please send your contributions to ARS Social Services,517 W. Glenoaks Blvd., Glendale , CA 91202-2812 . Credit card or Pay Pal contributions are also available on-line at www.arswestusa.org.
The Armenian Relief Society of Western USA, established in 1984 and with regional headquarters in Glendale, CA , has 27 chapters and more than 1,200 members in five western states. The ARS-WUSA operates a Social Services Division and Child, Youth, and Family Guidance Center, and funds numerous youth programs, scholarships, and relief efforts. For further information, please visit www.arswestusa.org or call (818) 500-1343.
