The EBMA Foundation, established in 2014 and registered under Assam Socities Registration Act of 1860 with a mission to bring meaningful change in the areas of healthcare and education. For over 11 years, the foundation has been working closely with underserved communities, with a strong focus on healthcare and educational development. Building on our commitment to holistic development, the foundation has expanded its work into the healthcare sector, with a specific focus on cleft care. Today, we are proud to be actively engaged in cleft-related health programs across India, providing life-changing surgeries, pre- and post-operative care, and awareness programs to low-income communities.
Smile for Life – Free Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate Surgeries
The “Smile for Life – Free Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate Surgeries” initiative by the EBMA Foundation is a non-profit healthcare programme dedicated to transforming the lives of children and young adults born with cleft lip and palate deformities. Through this project, the Foundation aims to provide 30 free surgeries to beneficiaries from economically weaker communities who otherwise cannot afford treatment.
Cleft conditions not only affect physical appearance but also create long-term health and social challenges. Many children struggle with feeding difficulties, speech impairment, malnutrition, recurring infections, and emotional distress due to social discrimination. Early surgical intervention can dramatically improve a child’s health, confidence, and future opportunities.
Under this project, beneficiaries will receive holistic support that includes patient identification and screening, medical consultations, surgical procedures, hospital support, counselling, and post-operative care. The programme also focuses on guiding families regarding nutrition, hygiene, and rehabilitation (long-term follow-up) to ensure sustainable recovery and improved well-being.
The surgeries will be conducted in Kolkata, West Bengal, where specialised cleft care facilities and medical professionals are available. The project will primarily support families travelling from underserved regions across Eastern India, including rural and low-income communities where access to specialised healthcare remains limited.
The EBMA Foundation has been actively working to improve access to cleft care and holistic healthcare support through collaborations with medical professionals, hospitals, volunteers, and social partners. Through the support raised via the TATA 25K Marathon platform, the Foundation seeks to restore smiles, rebuild confidence, and give children a renewed chance at life.
Every contribution towards this initiative will directly help a child receive life-changing surgical treatment and move closer toward a healthier, more dignified future.
Project Objective (in points)
The objectives of the “Smile for Life” project are:
Target Beneficiaries:
30 Children and young adults born with cleft lip and cleft palate from 6 months onwards, belonging to economically disadvantaged families and underserved communities.
Project Location:
Kolkata & Siliguri – West Bengal
Video: Born to Smile: Why Thousands of Indian Children Can’t
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Smile for Life Free Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate Surgeries