HISTORIC HUMANITARIAN ACTION IN LOS ANGELES, CA
9021Pho Restaurants, Chef Kimmy Tang and Community Leader Greg Martayan mark a Historic Day in the City of Los Angeles by Announcing the Early Success of “Helping Feed Los Angeles” Canned Food Drive
Sherman Oaks, California, June 20, 2012 – 9021Pho and Vietnamese Master Chef Kimmy Tang joined with Greg Martayan and other community organizations at the C&E Merdinian Armenian School for a press conference to announce the early successes of the largest canned food drive in the San Fernando Valley, City of Los Angeles. Having already bypassed their goal of 10,000 cans, which translates into filling the plates of over 20,000 people in need, the community leaders and students celebrated the coalition’s milestone.
Chef Kimmy Tang and Greg Martayan were joined by other community leaders including, Los Angeles Police Department-Operations Valley Bureau Deputy Chief George Villegas, Los Angeles Fire Department Battalion Chief-Van Nuys Division Patrick Healey, District Director to State Assembly Member Bob Blumenfield-Ms. Lyn Shaw, Organization of Istanbul Armenians Executive Committee Member Mr. Raffi Tutuyan, San Fernando Valley Rescue Mission Representatives Mr. Wade Trimmer and Mr. Rob Baskerville. This influential group of community leaders was also supported by having the Merdinian Board of Directors Chariman Mr. Vahe Nalbandian, Executive Committee Member Mr. Koko Balian and Principal Mrs. Lina Arslanian present at the announcement.
“It is a great honor to stand in support of such a noble cause with Greg Martayan. The Los Angeles Police Department-Operations Valley Bureau, takes pride in being able to share in this special moment today within the San Fernando Valley,” stated LAPD Deputy Chief George Villegas. LAFD Battalion Chief Patrick Healey added, “I am humbled and very appreciative to be part of such a worthy charitable endeavor and inspired to see so many young persons learning the rewards associated with giving. On behalf of the Los Angeles Fire Department, thank you and we look forward to future collaborations.”
This partnership to help the community all began on April 26, 2012, when resident and Los Angeles community leader Greg Martayan received word that the summer months were going to be the driest “food collection” season ever for the San Fernando Valley Rescue Mission. He refused to accept the reality that families in need would be turned away from a hot meal. Acting quickly, Martayan put together a coalition of community organizations and schools to raise enough canned food to make a difference. Martayan’s long-time friend World-Renowned Chef Kimmy Tang accepted his invitation and call to action, putting her support and efforts behind his “Helping Feed Los Angeles” movement.
Several organizations and individuals stepped forward to join in the coalition. The partnering organizations and persons include: C & E Merdinian School, The Organization of Istanbul Armenians Board of Directors, St. Nicholas of Myra Episcopal Church, Holy Martyrs Armenian Apostolic Church Board of Trustees, San Fernando Valley Resident and Community Leader Mr. Jeff Ebenstein, San Fernando Valley Resident and Executive Committee Member of the Central City Association Mr. Peklar Pilavjian and Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church.
“The San Fernando Valley Rescue Mission is a tremendous organization that feeds up to 700 people per week. It was an honor to be able to support and collect canned food for the ‘Helping Feed Los Angeles’ campaign. I’ve always believed that together we can make all the difference in the world,” noted Mr. Jeff Ebenstein.
“Collaborations such as these are what make the City of Los Angeles such a great place. Through this action we have helped thousands across our City. There is no greater collaboration than one that ends with this kind of successful service to the community,” stated Mr. Peklar Pilavjian.
For press coverage and information, please contact Jennifer BoGray, 9021Pho Marketing at 330-687-2244, jennifer.bogray@9021pho.com.
