Colgate-Palmolive Supports Cleft Surgeries in 10 States: Smiles for Life Program Makes a Difference

Goa: Colgate-Palmolive India's "Smiles for Life" corporate social responsibility (CSR) program, in partnership with the NGO Mission Smile, is facilitating corrective surgeries for cleft lip and palate in children and young adults. This impactful initiative has already supported over 2,195 cleft surgeries across 10 states in India, and is now setting its sights on Goa for a three-day surgical camp between February 18-20, 2024.

The comprehensive cleft surgery camp will begin with patient screenings, followed by corrective procedures performed by a team of medical experts specializing in plastic surgery, oral and maxillofacial surgery, anesthesiology, pediatrics, dentistry, speech language pathology, and nursing. Wisdom Hospital, Panjim, is generously hosting the mission and providing crucial infrastructure support, including operation theatres, recovery wards, post-operative wards, and the dedication of doctors, nurses, and paramedical staff throughout the camp.

Quote: "Our 'Smiles for Life' program reflects our unwavering commitment to the oral health and well-being of children in our communities," said Shilpashree Muniswamappa, Director, ESG and communications, Colgate-Palmolive India. "Every year, nearly 35,000 children are born with cleft, facing challenges like malnourishment, speech difficulties, and social acceptance. By collaborating with Mission Smile and Wisdom Hospital, we actively contribute to their lives through transformative cleft lip and palate surgeries. Witnessing the positive impact across diverse regions strengthens our belief that every smile has the power to inspire and uplift communities. I am immensely proud of the collective efforts towards promoting oral health and overall well-being."

About Colgate-Palmolive (India) Limited: A caring and innovative growth company, Colgate-Palmolive is reimagining a healthier future for all. As the market leader in oral care in India, Colgate-Palmolive (India) Limited is committed to sustainable and profitable growth while fostering an inclusive workplace. With a focus on oral and personal care, the company is recognized for its leadership in sustainability and community well-being initiatives.

Colgate has made significant strides in reducing plastic waste, promoting recyclability, conserving water and energy, and improving children's oral health through the Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures® program, which has reached over 171 million children since its inception.

Wisdom Hospital: As part of their CSR activities, Wisdom Hospital, Panjim, is hosting the mission and providing free infrastructure support, including operation theatres, recovery wards, post-operative wards, and the dedication of their medical staff. This multi-specialty hospital aims to provide affordable and quality healthcare to the people of Goa.

Mission Smile: A registered medical charitable trust, Mission Smile is dedicated to providing life-changing surgeries to children born with cleft lip, palate, and other facial deformities. Since 2002, they have provided complete medical evaluations to over 69,000 cleft patients and performed free surgeries for more than 45,000 children and adults. Their network includes 138 missions, 16 outreach centers pan India, and a dedicated Comprehensive Cleft Care Centre in Guwahati. Over 1,800 medical and non-medical volunteers from India and abroad contribute to their cause.

Together, Colgate-Palmolive, Wisdom Hospital, and Mission Smile are making a significant difference in the lives of children and young adults with cleft deformities. Their dedication and collaboration are creating brighter smiles and a healthier future for all.