The Armenian Relief Society (ARS), Inc. joined Dorcas Aid this month in an effort to assist victims of the famine in the Horn of Africa, The Armenian Weekly reported.

The worst drought in over half a century has hit parts of Eastern Africa, affecting more than 10 million people. Especially hard-hit are the more than 125,000 Somali refugees who are crossing into Ethiopia at the rate of 1,600 to 2,000 a day, arriving in refugee camps malnourished, dehydrated, and exhausted after having walked for days or, in some cases, weeks.

“As an international non-profit organization, we feel obligated to assist human beings in distress. Having people facing famine in the 21st century is unthinkable for us; therefore we have decided to join the efforts of Dorcas Aid and other organizations and try to alleviate the suffering of women and children facing starvation,” said Vicky Marashlian, chairperson of the ARS, Inc. Central Executive Board.

“I really appreciate this thoughtful gesture on behalf of the Armenian Relief Society,” said Dikran Youmoushakian, the executive director of DorAid America. “I look forward for a spirit of cooperation. Our common goal is to serve people less fortunate. May God bless the ARS endeavors and efforts.”

Dorcas Aid and DorAid America representatives visited the ARS, Inc. International Office in Boston in July 2011, and the two non-profit organizations agreed to cooperate in the implementation of humanitarian and development projects.

Dorcas Aid International is a Christian relief and development organization serving needy communities in 20 countries around the world, including Armenia. DorAid America is the partner organization in New Jersey.