Through Smile Walls installed at partner locations, patients, families, cleft care teams and visitors were invited to contribute messages or drawings celebrating the people and moments that make them smile. The initiative formed part of Smile Train’s wider World Smile Day campaign, which uses the simple act of sharing a smile to promote kindness and increase awareness about children born with clefts.
In Delhi, Smile Train India expanded the initiative beyond fixed locations with its mobile “Smile Wall on Wheels”. The moving installation is travelling to schools and public spaces across North, South and Central Delhi, including Delhi University North Campus and various popular market areas, bringing the campaign directly to communities.
The school visits continue Smile Train India’s awareness outreach among children and educators. At public stops, residents and visitors can write on the wall about what makes them smile while learning where families affected by cleft conditions can seek support.
Mamta Carroll, Senior Vice President and Regional Director for Asia at Smile Train, said, “World Smile Day gives us a wonderful reason to bring people together. Across India, our partners are creating spaces where families and communities can share moments of happiness while learning more about cleft care. With Smile Wall on Wheels in Delhi, we are taking that conversation into schools and everyday public spaces, so that more people know support is available for children born with clefts.”
The nationwide celebrations build on last year’s Smile Wall initiative, which brought partner hospitals, schools and communities together around the question, “What makes you smile?” The continued initiative combines community participation with efforts to improve awareness of cleft conditions and available care.
People can learn more about the World Smile Day campaign at www.smiletrain.org. Families in India seeking information about cleft care can also contact Smile Train India through its toll-free helpline at 1800 103 8301.
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