Smile Train is a non-governmental organization based in New York, New York, dedicated to providing comprehensive cleft care to children and families in need. The organization focuses on supporting sustainable medical treatment for individuals affected by cleft lip and palate conditions. By collaborating with local medical professionals and healthcare facilities, Smile Train ensures that patients receive safe and effective surgeries along with essential follow-up care.
Operating out of its New York office, Smile Train coordinates efforts to deliver specialized surgical services, education, and support in communities around the world. The organization emphasizes a model that empowers local surgeons and healthcare providers to independently carry out treatments, thereby fostering long-term improvements in access to cleft care. This approach also helps reduce dependency on external aid by strengthening local healthcare infrastructure.
Smile Train’s work extends beyond surgery, encompassing speech therapy, nutritional guidance, and psychosocial support to address the multifaceted needs of patients. This comprehensive care model recognizes the importance of treating the whole individual, not just the physical condition, and contributes to improved quality of life and social integration. By focusing on education and capacity building, the organization aims to create sustainable health outcomes in underserved regions.
As a non-governmental organization, Smile Train operates through partnerships and funding that support its mission of making cleft treatment accessible globally. Its presence in New York serves as a central hub for coordinating international projects and managing resources. Smile Train continues to play a critical role in advancing cleft care through a combination of medical expertise, community involvement, and strategic planning.
