Rebuilding Livelihoods for Displaced Families in Aragatsotn
Published: Feb 18, 2026 Reading time: 2 minutes Share: Share an articleTwo years after the 2023 mass displacement from Nagorno-Karabakh, the focus for many families in Armenia has shifted from immediate survival to long-term independence. To help them, we have provided 11 households with funds to restore their businesses. By investing into the tailored support plans, we are empowering 69 individuals to transition from displacement toward sustainable self-reliance and dignity.
Over two years have passed since the mass displacement from Nagorno-Karabakh in 2023, when more than 100,000 Armenians were forced to flee to Armenia. Since then, we have initiated dozens of projects to support these people. However, as time goes on, it has become increasingly clear that long-term support is essential to help displaced families rebuild their lives with dignity and independence.
Back in Nagorno-Karabakh, many men were engaged in military services, public sector jobs, agriculture, or small family businesses. Arriving in Armenia with almost nothing, restarting similar livelihoods has proven extremely challenging. Recognising this gap, we launched a targeted livelihood initiative focused on supporting heads of displaced families who are motivated to start or restore businesses and generate sustainable income.
As part of this initiative, we have supported 11 displaced men and their families in the Aragatsotn region by providing tailored livelihood kits, including construction equipment, agricultural tools, poultry, and kiosks. In Aragatsotn region, 69 people from these 11 families are now benefiting from assistance provided through our Club of Friends Foundation.
Davit Harutyunyan is just one example of our success. With a once-off use of the gardening equipment he received before the winter season, Davit was able to earn around 30,000 AMD [almost €70]. Working alongside his father, Armen, he provides seasonal gardening services to the community. Davit and Armen believe that demand for their work will increase significantly after winter, and the tools provided will be essential for securing future income opportunities.
Davit Tovmasyan was seriously injured during the fuel depot explosion in Nagorno-Karabakh before the displacement. As a result, he can no longer work in his previous profession as a hairdresser. Despite this life-changing injury, Davit remains determined to work and support his family. Today, he earns a living by selling fruit and vegetables in the street near his house. With our support, he now has a kiosk, allowing him to organise his business more effectively and work in safer, warmer conditions during winter and in adverse weather.