AdventHealth Central Florida’s Sharing Smiles initiative has provided free cleft palate surgeries to children in Latin America for nearly 30 years, transforming the lives of more than 26,000 people through free facial reconstructive surgery, pediatric dentistry, and pediatric rehabilitation services. In 2024, Sharing Smiles achieved significant milestones, completing 11 mission trips and inaugurating three new sites: San Juan de la Maguana, Dominican Republic (Cleft), Moca, Dominican Republic (Pediatric Rehab), and San Juan Sacatepéquez, Guatemala (Dentistry). Local surgeons train to ensure sustainable care after the team leaves, and the preparation for each mission is thorough, with essential supplies brought from Central Florida. Local partners help spread awareness, ensuring children in remote towns can access the surgeries they need. Generous volunteers continue to give the gift of a new smile, making a lasting impact on children in developing countries.
Why we did it
The Sharing Smiles initiative addresses the unmet need for cleft palate surgeries in underserved Latin American communities. These surgeries restore a child’s smile and provide an opportunity for improved health, self-esteem, and future opportunities. By partnering with local surgeons and communities, the program ensures that the impact lasts beyond the mission trips and continues to provide long-term care.
