Smile Angel Foundation

Smile Angel Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive care for children with cleft lip and palate deformities. Founded in 2006 by famous Chinese singer Faye Wong and her then-husband, actor Li Yapeng, the foundation aims to raise awareness of cleft conditions, support affected families, and fund surgeries and medical treatments for underprivileged children in China.

Background

Cleft lip and palate are congenital deformities that occur when a baby's lip or mouth do not form properly during pregnancy. These conditions can lead to difficulties in feeding, speaking, hearing, and breathing, and they require specialized medical treatment. In many cases, children from low-income families cannot afford the necessary surgeries, leading to lifelong disabilities and social stigma.

Mission

The mission of the Smile Angel Foundation is to ensure that every child born with a cleft lip or palate receives the medical care they need regardless of their family's financial situation. The foundation focuses on four main areas: medical treatment, family support, public education, and research on cleft conditions.

Activities

The foundation organizes free surgical missions in collaboration with hospitals and medical professionals across China. These missions involve pre-surgical assessments, surgeries, and post-operative care. Beyond medical treatment, Smile Angel Foundation also provides psychological support for children and their families, helping them cope with the emotional challenges associated with cleft conditions.

Additionally, the foundation engages in public education campaigns to dispel myths and reduce the stigma associated with cleft lips and palates. It also supports research initiatives aimed at improving surgical techniques and understanding the causes of cleft conditions.

Impact

Since its inception, the Smile Angel Foundation has helped thousands of children receive life-changing surgeries. The foundation's work has not only improved the health and well-being of these children but has also raised public awareness about cleft conditions and the importance of early treatment.

Funding

The Smile Angel Foundation relies on donations from individuals, corporations, and fundraising events to finance its activities. The foundation practices transparency in its operations and financial reporting to ensure donors that their contributions are used effectively.

See Also

• Cleft lip and palate
• Non-profit organization
• Faye Wong
• Li Yapeng