100,000 Medical Masks Provided to Los Angeles on Behalf of Armenia

In an effort to support the fight against the coronavirus pandemic, 100,000 medical masks have been provided to the city of Los Angeles on behalf of the Republic of Armenia. This information has been reported by the Armenian Consulate General in Los Angeles through their Facebook page.

"This program will help the city authorities of Los Angeles mitigate the pandemic's consequences and combat the virus. The key figure behind this important initiative is well-known Los Angeles Armenian philanthropist Jack Yurejyan, founder and executive chairman of Western Drug. He and his wife Zarik are also implementing an important program in Gyumri, Armenia's second-largest city, providing housing for families affected by the earthquake and supporting children to achieve academic success, plan for the future, and participate in vocational training programs.

The masks have been distributed to medical institutions and vulnerable groups in Los Angeles under the coordination of the deputy mayor for international cooperation, Ambassador Nina Hajikyan, and the Armenian Consul General, Ambassador Armen Baiburtian. This initiative highlights the developing strong partnership between Armenia and the second-largest city in the United States, which was elevated to a new level during Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's visit to Los Angeles in September 2019, where Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti warmly hosted the Prime Minister.

"The fight against COVID-19 has shrunk the world, and the inhabitants of the planet have united to confront this deadly pandemic. Armenia and Los Angeles are connected by unbreakable ties, and this generous gift will help protect Los Angeles residents belonging to vulnerable groups and healthcare workers who demonstrate incredible bravery and exceptional determination in saving lives," said Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti.

The Armenian community in Los Angeles is one of the largest and most active communities in the world. As an integral part of the city, the American-Armenian community proudly bears the honorary title of a Los Angelino and spares no effort in contributing to the city's progress. In April 2020, on the occasion of the 105th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, the Armenian community of Los Angeles initiated a humanitarian fundraising project titled "1.5 Million Meals for 1.5 Million Lives" under the banner of "Thank You, America." The proceeds will be directed to the Feeding America organization, honoring the activities of the Middle East Foundation and providing food for needy Americans. The Middle East Foundation was the first non-governmental organization to enjoy the official support of the U.S. Congress, whose fundraising saved the lives of 132,000 Armenian orphans, established over 400 shelters, hospitals, and schools, greatly aiding the survival of the Armenian people. Currently, as a result of fundraising efforts carried out by the American-Armenian community across the country, more than 5 million food portions have been secured for those in need," the message states.