Renovations at "Olympus" Educational Complex

May 22, 2009

U.S. Ambassador Marie L. Yovanovitch and Jerry Obendorfer, Director of Humanitarian Programs of State Department cutting the ribbon of the newly reconstructed laundry (StateDept)

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Contact: Counterpart International, CHAP/Armenia
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Yerevan, Armenia – Ambassador Marie L. Yovanovitch, of the U.S. Embassy in Armenia, and Gerald Oberndorfer, Director of Humanitarian Programs, U.S. Department of State, opened a newly reconstructed laundry at Olympus Educational Complex in Nork on May 22, 2009. The project will improve hygiene and sanitary conditions of the laundry at the educational complex for children suffering from movement disorders. LDS charities contributed to the project through provision of furniture and all necessary equipment (washing machines and an ironing machine).

"The Renovation of the school laundry and ironing room is of a great assistance to the school as it not only guarantees improvement in the overall sanitary and hygiene condition but also serve as a great example of kindness, compassion and goodwill. On behalf of our administration, staff and children I would like to express our gratitude to all those kind people who have their contribution in the implementation of this project" says Vahram Grigoryan, the director of the complex.

Counterpart International´s Community and Humanitarian Assistance Program (CHAP) in Armenia implemented the project and has worked with the school since 2002 delivering furniture and various essential items, such as blankets, bedding, sheets, pillowcases, etc, according to the students' needs. Overall, the value of the donated items amounts to about $80 thousand including a recent 40 ft container with beddings and furniture.

Counterpart´s CHAP, in close cooperation with school management, has also replaced old windows with new metal plastic ones, new doors were installed; floor and walls were evened and tiled; a new water supply canal assembled; ceiling and walls covered with latex paint, and the electrical system repaired.

CHAP is funded by the U.S. Department of State. CHAP operates in Armenia since 1995. From its commencement until present, the program has assisted more than 2.5 million needy Armenians. Through its network of 477 partner organizations, CHAP imported and distributed humanitarian assistance to Armenia valued at over $30 million.

"Olympus" Educational Complex is located in Nork area of Yerevan and has approximately 50 years history. The complex offers both educational and special-educational classes, which are held for children suffering from movement disorders (mostly scoliosis) within integrated and special educational classes. The school operates 24 hours per day and the dormitory is currently housing 85 children with special-educational needs both from Yerevan and other Marzes of Armenia.

Latter-day Saint Charities (LDSC) is the humanitarian arm of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, headquarters in Salt lake City, Utah, USA and provides HA in many countries in the world. LDS was registered in Armenia since 1988 and provides services in education, promotion and health spheres. Counterpart started collaboration with LDS Charities from the beginning of its activities in Armenia.

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