The number of lonely elderly people, who always enjoyed respect in Armenia, increased after the devastating 1988 earthquake, collapse of the Soviet Union as well as due to the huge refugee flows from Azerbaijan (nearly 400 thousand). The state’s attempts to resolve the problems elderly people are experiencing prove insufficient, as there is a strong need for public support.

The problem is addressed by a number of Armenian NGOs, including the Armenian Red Cross Society, which has been for many years implementing programs to reduce vulnerability of the population through social reforms. On March 1, 2010, the ARCS announced the launch of “They are waiting for us...” campaign aiming to attract public attention to social, health and psychological problems of lonely elderly living in dormitories across Armenia. The campaign consists of two stages - awareness outreach and fundraising activities. Under the program, 90 recipients from the towns of Armavir, Gyumri and Gavar are provided psychological support and home care by volunteers. Funds raised from the campaign will be allocated as social aid to 1200 elderly people living in dormitories.

A total of 96 people from Yerevan, Vanadzor and 13 populated areas of Tavush region are recipients of the ARCS-led “Social and Medical Care to the Victims of National Socialism” program.

“We are hopeful the campaign will help these lonely people. The results will be summed up during a charity supper on May 21. Zvartnots International Airports has also joined the campaign placing donation boxes in its terminals,” ARCS International Youth Program Coordinator Nazeli Kirakosyan said, calling on major Armenian organizations to join.

The data on elderly people was provided by the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs. The ARCS collaborates with the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs and Yerevan Mayor’s Office.