HCM CITY (VNS) — US-based non-profit Operation Smile plans to mark its 25th anniversary in Viet Nam with a major campaign that will fund surgeries for children with facial and dental deformities in 25 provinces and cities.
At a press briefing on Thursday, the Operation Smile Viet Nam said simultaneous medical missions and training would be arranged at 25 sites for 25 days around the country.
It is expected to bring smiles back to the faces of around 5,000 children.
There will also be training, site discussions, seminars, and workshops on various topics for international and local healthcare volunteers and students.
Nguyen Viet Phuong, chief representative of Operation Smile Viet Nam, said the activities indicate his NGO's long-term commitment to communities in the country.
Volunteers from 25 countries will perform the surgeries and support the surgeons, including in An Giang, Bao Loc, Can Tho, Da Nang, Ha Noi, Ha Tinh, HCM City, Hue, Kien Giang, Nghe An, Nha Trang, from November 1 to November 25.
The NGO's annual fund-raising art auction, An Evening of Smile, to be held on May 17 this year.
Every year Operation Smile organises 28 surgery campaigns in the country. "With US$250 we can help a child born with cleft lip or palate deformities to change his life," Phuong said.
Every year an estimated 3,000 children are born with cleft lip or palate deformities.
