Children First’s Miracle Smiles Program facilitates life-changing surgery in Australia for disadvantaged children from developing countries without the resources to help them.
Started by Moira Kelly, the initiative has been supported by local Rotary Clubs from the beginning and they gathered recently to celebrate the Children First Foundation’s (CFF) achievements at its Miracle Smiles Retreat in Kilmore.
Twelve Rotary clubs were represented by almost 100 Rotarians at the celebration, organised by the Southern Mitchell Club, with a strong representation from Seymour.
The evening also raised $2000 for the CFF.
Ms Kelly spoke at a Rotary District Conference 20 years ago, where she quickly gained the respect and support for her program.
She asked for a place where her children could feel safe. The district responded, and the Miracle Smiles Retreat was the result, changing the lives of nearly 400 children to date.
The retreat stands on 40acres donated by Kilmore Rotarian Noel Baker. The buildings were donated and made fit for purpose by Rotarians from the district.
The project continues to grow, with extensions underway to enable the retreat to house 25 children at a time.
A more formal and larger celebration is planned for November.
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