Supporting Happiness Through Help: Armenian Culture Shines at the European Parliament’s Christmas Market

BRUSSELS, DECEMBER 11, ARMENPRESS. Armenian culture and craftsmanship take center stage at the European Parliament’s Christmas Market with a dedicated stand managed by the Arslanian Foundation. All proceeds from this stand are directed to supporting Armenian families in need, with a current focus on improving living conditions for displaced Armenians from Artsakh by providing essential goods.

In an interview with Armenpress, Anelga Arslanian, head of the foundation and initiator of this project, shared how the aftermath of the 2020 Artsakh War and the hardships faced by displaced families compelled them to act. Initially relying on family resources as part of a tradition of giving, they expanded their efforts to support a growing number of families.

“We began by assisting seven homeless families, but that number quickly grew. Today, we’re striving to help dozens. I was determined to secure sponsorships for my compatriots. Some donors wished to contribute without direct contact with the families, which led us to formalize our efforts by creating the foundation, establishing a dedicated bank account, and ensuring that all donations are securely managed,” explained Anelga. She stressed the value of personally meeting with the families at least two to three times annually to better understand their needs and develop practical solutions.

Irene Sanchez Prieto, a Spanish staff member at the European Parliament, supported the stand last year by purchasing handmade Armenian crafts to gift to her friends in Spain. “Every piece here is brimming with color and love—it’s stunning. By treating ourselves, we’re also helping families and women in need. What could be more beautiful?” she remarked.

For Hungarian translators at the European Parliament, the stand is a unique chance to explore and purchase authentic Armenian handmade items—a rare opportunity. Enthusiastic about languages and cultures, they cherish the ability to bring a touch of Armenian heritage into their homes.

The Arslanian Foundation aims to go beyond one-time donations, focusing on sustainable solutions that empower families to escape extreme poverty. By gifting a goat, rabbits, or beehives, they enable families to generate income and gain stability, paving the way for assistance to other families in dire need.

“Some families have daughters eager to learn trades like manicuring or hairdressing. We’ve created opportunities for them to train and start working. Once these families achieve self-sufficiency, we move on to support others living in deplorable conditions—homes without roofs or sanitation, for instance. The challenges are enormous, especially with the influx of 120,000 displaced Armenians from Artsakh,” said Anelga. She expressed heartfelt gratitude to those contributing through donations or purchases.

Founded to assist struggling families in Armenia, Artsakh, and the diaspora, the foundation has initiated numerous projects. In 2020, Lara Arslanian launched the Protect ARTsakh online charity art auction, while Anelga and Lori Arslanian oversee the foundation’s operations and initiatives.

A notable program, “One Village, One Tractor,” has provided seven remote and impoverished villages with tractors, enabling residents to sustain themselves through agriculture.

Born and raised in Belgium, Anelga Arslanian is a physician who first traveled to Armenia during the Spitak earthquake in 1988. Since then, Armenia has remained a significant part of her family’s life. As a member of Doctors Without Borders, Anelga remains deeply connected to her Armenian heritage and committed to helping those in need.

The foundation also conducts fundraising campaigns to equip Armenian hospitals with critical medical devices, such as neonatal resuscitation equipment. Furthermore, they provide displaced Artsakh families with essential items, including beds, blankets, pillows, and sheets, to improve their living conditions.

Prior to participating in the European Parliament’s Christmas Market, the foundation held a week-long charity sale at the office of an Armenian architect in Brussels. Located on one of the city’s busiest streets, the architect generously offered his space to support this noble cause.