Our story
The Fund for Armenian Relief (FAR) was founded on the principle of need. In response to the 1988 earthquake, a group of dedicated and prominent Armenians led by Archbishop Torkom Manoogian, Dr. Edgar Housepian, and Kevork Hovnanian, provided the necessary resources and aid to help Armenians rebuild their shattered lives. These outstanding individuals represented the collective strength and willpower of the Eastern Diocese and many American Armenians.
While initially focused on the immediate aid required, FAR quickly realized that Armenia needed medium-term and long-term support that extended far beyond healing the wounds inflicted by the earthquake’s devastation. As a result, FAR evolved into an all-encompassing organization with a dedicated Board of Directors and a steadfast, incredible staff in Yerevan, Tavush, Gyumri, and Sisian.
From relief to opportunity
Today, FAR is world-renowned and respected as an organization whose mission is to empower the people of Armenia. To date, FAR has implemented more than 300 relief, social, child protection, education, economic development, health, and cultural projects valued at more than $400 million. To read more about our programs, click here. This shop is an extension of that mission, transforming charitable support into long-term opportunity by helping small businesses grow, earn income, and reach new markets.
