On February 11th, FBM Foundation, in collaboration with the Foundation of Our Lady of Peace Mission, orchestrated a heartwarming initiative in Subic, Zambales, under the banner of “Happy Smile, Happy Life.” This endeavor was not just about distributing donations but also spreading joy among children in the Aeta Resettlement Area, coinciding with Dental Health Month, celebrated to promote oral hygiene awareness in the Philippines.
The Significance of Dental Health:
In a month dedicated to oral hygiene awareness, FBM Foundation recognized the importance of nurturing healthier smiles among young Filipinos. The Aeta community, residing in Subic, Zambales, has shown incredible resilience, even in the face of calamities like the 1991 Volcanic Hazards. FBM Foundation prioritized supporting these resilient individuals with tools that could enhance their health consciousness.
The connection between dental health and overall well-being is undeniable. Educating the youth about hygiene is an essential step in fostering independence and self-sufficiency. FBM Foundation’s mission for this month was to provide the means and resources necessary for Filipino children to learn self-care, enabling them to grow into informed and knowledgeable future generations. According to Vítor Francisco, the Director of FBM Foundation, “Health education starts from within, and at FBM Foundation, we believe that being closer to our communities allows us to grow together and shape a better tomorrow for our kids.”
FBM Foundation’s Smile-Inducing Efforts:
In celebration of National Children’s Dental Health Month, FBM Foundation joined hands with the Foundation of Our Lady of Peace Mission Inc. to organize a joint donation drive benefiting 250 children in the Aeta Resettlement area.
The 12 dedicated FBM Foundation volunteers played a pivotal role in this initiative by providing oral hygiene kits comprising toothbrushes, toothpaste, mouthwash, and oral antiseptics to shield against viral and bacterial infections. The day was not just about dental care; it was a celebration of smiles and well-being.
During this heartwarming event, both organizations extended their support by offering nourishing lunch meals to the children and distributing essential goods, including rice, canned goods, noodles, and vitamins. Families of the children also received milk and diapers for infants.
In addition to the material contributions, the volunteers injected fun and excitement into the day with engaging game sessions and educational information about oral health. The result was an abundance of infectious smiles on the faces of the children in Zambales.
FBM Foundation’s “Happy Smile, Happy Life” initiative demonstrated the power of compassion and community involvement. Beyond distributing donations, it created an atmosphere of joy and learning, nurturing healthier smiles and fostering independence among Filipino children. As Dental Health Month unfolded, FBM Foundation’s commitment to building a brighter future for the youth was evident in every smile it helped create.