Eco-Friendly Fuel Distributed to Vulnerable Families in Gyumri’s Shantytowns
Gyumri, Shirak Province, Armenia, February 28, 2026 – The Armenian Caritas charitable public organization, with funding from Caritas Vorarlberg and support from the Gyumri Municipality, has implemented another social initiative. Extremely needy families living in the shantytowns of Gyumri have been provided with briquettes (fuel).
The distribution of the fuel was carried out based on lists provided by the Gyumri Municipality. The transportation of the briquettes from the Basen settlement to Gyumri was also ensured by the municipality. Residents of the Vard Bagh district dormitory, the Antaravan 26 emergency building, and the shantytowns on Sevyan and Ghandilyan streets received assistance.
In an interview with an “Armenpress” correspondent, Edgar Hakobyan, an engineer at Armenian Caritas, emphasized the dual significance of the initiative, noting that this program solves two important problems. First, it alleviates the heating problem for citizens living in shantytowns or temporary shelters, and second, it exclusively uses environmentally friendly fuel.
Eight tons of briquettes have already been distributed, and the remaining two tons will reach the beneficiaries in the coming days.
Background of the Initiative
The initiative stems from the ongoing challenges faced by vulnerable populations in Gyumri’s shantytowns, particularly during the colder months. Many families in these areas struggle with inadequate heating solutions, often resorting to less environmentally friendly and potentially harmful methods. The provision of eco-friendly briquettes addresses both the immediate need for warmth and promotes sustainable practices within the community.
Collaborative Effort for Social Impact
The success of this program is a testament to the collaborative efforts of several key organizations. Armenian Caritas, a non-governmental organization dedicated to social welfare, spearheaded the initiative. Their work was made possible through the financial backing of Caritas Vorarlberg, an international charitable organization, highlighting the global reach of humanitarian aid. The crucial involvement of the Gyumri Municipality ensured efficient logistics and targeted distribution to those most in need, leveraging local knowledge and resources.
Addressing Heating Needs and Environmental Concerns
The briquettes provided are described as environmentally friendly, indicating a conscious effort to mitigate the environmental impact often associated with traditional heating methods. This aspect is particularly important in urban areas where air quality can be a concern. By offering a cleaner burning fuel, the initiative not only provides warmth but also contributes to better public health and environmental sustainability.
Impact on Beneficiaries
The beneficiaries of this program are families residing in some of Gyumri’s most disadvantaged areas. These include residents of the Vard Bagh district dormitory, the Antaravan 26 emergency building, and the shantytowns located on Sevyan and Ghandilyan streets. For these families, the provision of fuel is a significant relief, helping them to cope with the harsh winter conditions and improve their living standards.
Distribution Logistics and Future Plans
The distribution process was meticulously organized, utilizing lists provided by the Gyumri Municipality to ensure fairness and reach the intended recipients. The transportation of the briquettes from Basen to Gyumri was also facilitated by the municipality, demonstrating their commitment to the project. With eight tons already distributed, the remaining two tons are expected to reach beneficiaries shortly, completing this phase of the initiative. This systematic approach ensures that aid reaches those who need it most in a timely and effective manner.
This initiative is part of a broader effort by Armenian Caritas and its partners to support vulnerable communities in Armenia, addressing various social and economic challenges. Such programs are vital for improving the quality of life for many residents and fostering a sense of community well-being.
Source: https://armenpress.am/hy/article/1243254/amp
