Young people are capable of hard work to provide for themselves and their families. Old people, who often had to do hard work in their lives, looked after their families and now suffer from physical complaints, can no longer do this. They need help.
Kima Sargsyan was born in 1939 in the city of Berd in the Armenian region of Tavush. Her life was marked by severe setbacks: two of her three sons and her husband died – one son was killed in the war in 1992, the other in a violent clash. Despite everything, Kima remained strong. For many years, she lived alone in her small, simple apartment in Berd, which still lacks basic amenities. There is no washing machine, the bathroom is half-finished, and running water is only cold.
Today, she is no longer completely alone – her third son has returned from Russia with his wife and grandchild to lovingly care for his mother. But this young family also faces significant challenges. The 15-year-old grandson has a speech impediment. The entire family lives on the equivalent of approximately 340 euros a month.
Amid these difficult living conditions, the soup kitchen has become a true ray of hope. Kima receives a warm, balanced meal every day, which not only benefits her physical health but also nourishes her soul. Here, in this protected environment, Kima has reconnected with other social contacts. She meets other senior citizens, can exchange ideas, laugh, listen – and simply “belong.”
She is especially pleased that her grandson enjoys the food she brings. The soup kitchen not only relieves her burden, but also gives the whole family a bit more stability.
Kima suffers from heart problems and is often bedridden. But the regular supply of food and the community give her new strength. For people like her, the daily meal is much more than just sustenance – it represents hope, connection, and dignity.
Three cooks work in the soup kitchen, which currently cooks daily for 65 people, mainly elderly, but also other needy people. In the summer of 2023, the soup kitchen was able to move to new premises. This has made caring for those in need much easier.
In order to provide and deliver the necessary groceries, we need 13 euros per person per month.
Upon request, we also offer sponsorships for elderly people for 48 euros per month. Please contact us for details!
