The Diocese
Posted: 12/18/2020
Kids are always the innocent by-standers of the tragedies caused by and in the adult world. For years, the In His Shoes ministry has reached out to the innocent by organizing toy drives to benefit children affected by domestic violence. The tragic circumstances involved in abusive relationship will manifest themselves in acts of domestic violence, separating families due to incarceration or even death. Often, children are overlooked in the list of casualties. With no fault of their own, they have to deal with the reality caused by acts of domestic violence.
Tens of thousands of toys have been collected through the years through the In His Shoes toy drive, named after Yvette Hakopian, a young lady who lost her life because of domestic violence. Today the drive continues collecting and delivering Christmas toys to bring holiday cheer to hundreds of children in the system.
This year, in the aftermath of the War in Artsakh, the Toy Drive has expanded to include the innocent children in Armenia. According to event organizer, Fr. Vazken Movsesian, “Christmas, more than any other holiday, is a time for children to believe in hope and love. These kids, with no fault of their own, are suffering the consequences of a dysfunctional world. Our toy drive is intended to bring a smile and reinstate hope in this young lives.”
Because of COVID related restrictions, there are strict guidelines to giving.
To donate toys for children here in shelters, purchase toys on-line at www.stockcalifornia.com . At check-out using the code “STLEON” and receive a 10% discount. No shipping necessary – just select “Pick Up” and our elves will pick up the toys and make the delivery. It’s that easy!
To donate toys for children in Armenia, make a monetary donation at www.InHisShoes.org and select “Toys for Armenia” OR send a check to ‘In His Shoes’ c/o Western Diocese: 3325 N. Glenoaks, Burbank, CA 91504 memo: “Toys for Armenia”
Time is running out. Bring holiday cheer to these children, make your donation today.
