Attendees of the Annual Saint Herman’s West Youth Conference filled over 100 blessing bags to share with the homeless!
Holy Transfiguration Cathedral in Los Angeles, CA, hosted the conference from December 26th to 30th, 2019. Youth and Youth leaders came from across ROCOR’s Western American diocese to share Divine Services and daily prayer, lectures, round-table discussions (Q & A with the clergy), liturgical workshops (reading, choir practice, acolyte service), excursions, social time and a talent show.
During the conference FOCUS Orange County Director, Irene Basdakis, spoke about service and shared current FOCUS projects in the region. Then she invited everyone to fill blessing bags with small essential items such as combs, snacks, deodorant, chap-stick, feminine products, first aid items, socks, tooth brushes, snacks, etc. FOCUS provided these items through partnerships with Giving Children Hope and the OC Food Bank. Each bag also contained a hand-written message.
Over 100 blessing bags were filled after only 15 minutes!!
The blessing bags will be donated to a local shelter, where they are easily accessible to the local homeless population.
FOCUS Orange County is a local center of FOCUS North America, a national 501c3 nonprofit organization.
