Generous contributions from American-Armenians allowed for the clearance of cluster bombs, and all dangerous explosive items, from the village of Norashenik in the Kashatagh/Lachin region of Artsakh in October 2013. 

Norashenik resident Virab Shaboian had previously been afraid to let his children play in the garden. “I definitely have to say thank you to all the people who ensure the safety of my children, but also other children in this region. I am very glad that there are people who give money to this type of charity”, says Virab.  

A video news report produced by Artsakh Television highlights the success story of Norashenik:

$11,000 was donated to the HALO Trust - the world’s oldest and largest mine clearance charity - to allow for complete clearance in the village last October. 

In all, 12 cluster bombs and 28 other items of unexploded ordinance were found and destroyed in the village, making 370 acres safe once again.  Virab’s children can now play in safety, he can cultivate the land, and the entire village of 105 is no longer in danger. The area can be used for grazing cattle, foraging for berries and mushrooms, and hunting and collecting firewood without the fear of death or serious injury.