Every three minutes, a child is born with a cleft lip or cleft palate. We estimate that there are millions of children waiting for care in the more than 30 countries where we work. 

The majority of these children’s families are unable to receive the surgery and comprehensive care they need because it’s too costly, too far away from their homes, of inadequate quality, or not available at all. Without treatment, cleft conditions can cause severe health problems that can become fatal. The children who survive may face years of painful bullying and social isolation.

Hope can become lost, and the future can feel uncertain for them and their families. 

Our Mission

Through our expertise in treating cleft lip and cleft palate, we create solutions that deliver safe surgery to people where it’s needed most.

What started as a family-led, surgical-program based organization has grown into a global network of passionate individuals united under the belief that access to safe surgery is not a privilege but a universal human right.

Empowering local health professionals through training and education creates surgical solutions that last. We’re proud that most of our medical volunteers are from the low-and middle-income countries we serve. By partnering with ministries of health, academic institutions, corporations, local health professionals and other organizations, our goal is to change lives and revolutionize how entire health systems deliver surgical care.

Our Commitment to Comprehensive Care

Surgery is a crucial step in treating a cleft condition; it can immediately improve a child’s ability to eat, breathe and speak. However, it’s not the only step. 

We also provide comprehensive care based on each child’s needs including speech therapy, nutritional support, dentistry, orthodontics and psychosocial support. This increases their likelihood of living a healthier and more fulfilling life, attending school and pursuing a brighter future. We’re committed to providing our patients with health that lasts – because it’s the right thing to do. 

Find out how we’re providing our patients with the highest quality of care around the world.

When we meet families affected by cleft conditions who live in some of the most impoverished communities in the world, we’re reminded of the transformative effect surgery can have on the lives of people like Dede and his daughter Clara.

Will you help us provide new smiles and brighter futures for more children?