Days before Christmas, members of The Light of the World congregation in Huntington Park organized a donation drive of clothes, personal items, and toys for former foster youth transitioning to homes in LA County. Members of the congregation spent numerous hours preparing dozens of gift bags and care boxes.
“I feel a moral responsibility to use what I have and help others by creating a positive impact and improving the life of others,” said Perla Martinez, participant youth from Huntington Park.
Journey House staff in Pasadena received and distributed the donation to youth and children for the Holidays.
“It is important to me as an advocate for youth and families that are impacted by the child welfare system to create a strong sense of support system around them,” said Ricardo Ortega, donation coordinator, further adding:
“There are over 30,000 foster youth in LA County alone and over 60,000 youth in CA under the Foster Care system, this overlooked population must have a sense of purpose, support, and positive mentors.”
Jorge Camarena, Program Director for the Journey House in Pasadena expressed his gratitude on behalf of the organization for the gifts received from The Light of the World on December 21st, 2020.
Journey House is an organization that offers support to former foster youth individuals and assists in transitioning them to live fully independent and successful lives. Martinez adds that the virtue of love demonstrated towards neighbors, as taught by the Lord Jesus Christ, is what fuels her to continue lending a helping hand.
