Armenian Relief Society holds luncheon

The Armenian Relief Society of Western USA hosted a Christmas luncheon at the Glendale Salvation Army on Dec. 23.

Nearly 200 people enjoyed the holiday meal provided by more than 20 ARS members.

In Los Angeles and Orange counties, ARS chapters also participated in food drives with local organizations.

In early December, the Armenian Relief Society also donated 304 pairs of pajamas to the City of Hope in Duarte to benefit the hospital’s 13th annual Pajama Party.

The Pajama Party is spearheaded by the Desi Geestman Foundation and serves pediatric cancer patients.

Along with the ARS, nearly 30 additional foundations such as police and fire departments, schools and other volunteers participated in the event.

The Desi Geestman Foundation, based in La Crescenta, was founded by Ileana Geestman in memory of her daughter Desi, who was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma at age 10 and passed away at age 12. The foundation serves children with cancer and their families. Visit www.desigeestmanfoundation.org.

The Armenian Relief Society of Western USA is based in Glendale and serves as a branch of the society, which dates to 1910 and serves regions around the world. Visit www.arswestusa.org.