$217,579-worth of Nike shoes arrive in Armenia

Published: Monday June 06, 2011

Could some of these kids be getting brand new shoes soon?. Vahram Baghdasarian / Photolur

Glendale, Calif. - An unprecedented donation of 5,253 pairs of brand new Nike shoes has just arrived in Armenia, as a result of the combined efforts of the Armenian Relief Society of Western USA (ARS-WUSA), United Armenian Fund and the Catholic Medical Mission Board.

A total of 40 palettes filled with 5,253 new Nike athletic shoes (total market value of $217,579) arrived on May 22, 2011 and will be distributed by the ARS to students involved in athletics, as well as athletic schools throughout Armenia, Artsakh, and Javakhk, including those in villages. Given the reputable brand of Nike, these shoes will certainly allow for students to engage in sports and activities with extreme comfort.

 Annually, the ARS-WUSA ships gifts and humanitarian items to Armenia, Artsakh, and Javakhk. The region takes an active role in offering aid internationally and continues its support of orphans; two ARS "Sosse" Kindergartens in the Republic of Nagorno Karabagh; youth centers in Javakhk; and educational sponsorship programs. As a board member of the United Armenian Fund, the ARS-WUSA continues to make a difference in the lives of those in need both locally and across the globe.

For further information about the ARS-WUSA, visit www.arswestusa.org.