On October 13th, MAJ John Friel Chief of the U.S. Embassy Office of Defense Cooperation joined Ms. Jemma Baghdasaryan Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Affairs, Mr. Harutyun Balasanyan Director of the Kharberd Orphanage and local community members, to conduct a ribbon cutting ceremony in honor of the renovation of the Kharberd Specialized Orphanage for Disabled Children.
The U.S. European Command Office of Defense Cooperation Humanitarian Assistance project valued over $500,000 and was a capital renovation of one dwelling block, including renovation of walls, floors, installation of new windows and doors, electrical, and plumbing systems. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers oversaw all aspects of the project from initial development through contract negotiations to quality assurance inspections. CESCO Corporation, a local Armenian construction company, performed all the renovation work.
The orphanage of Nor Kharberd is currently home for 238 children with special needs. The specialized learning process for these children is conducted through a special curriculum, which features drawing, sewing, music, drama, sport and agricultural workshops. The renovated rooms will provide a better living environment for the children, as well as improved sanitary conditions for the children and their caregivers.
