Transforming Faces

Introduction

Transforming Faces is a Canadian nonprofit organization founded in 1999 by Jackie Elton and Jo Jamieson. It is committed to providing Comprehensive Cleft Care (CCC) for children with cleft lip and palate, promoting full rehabilitation and community inclusion.

Mission and Vision

The mission of Transforming Faces is to partner locally and innovate globally, ensuring that children and families in under-resourced communities have access to comprehensive cleft care. Their vision is for all children affected by cleft lip and palate to experience full rehabilitation and community inclusion, supported by trusted local health teams.

Comprehensive Cleft Care Approach

Transforming Faces focuses on a multidisciplinary and appropriately timed care pathway, which includes:

• Parent support
• Nutritional care for infants
• Safe surgeries
• Holistic post-surgical care
• Speech therapy
• Feeding assistance for mothers and newborns
• Dental and orthodontic care
• Hearing support
• ENT care
• Transportation help for low-income families from rural areas
• Psycho-social counseling for patients and families

This comprehensive approach goes beyond initial surgery to address the broader needs of children with cleft conditions, impacting speech, hearing, nutrition, and social development.

Areas of Operation

Transforming Faces partners with local medical teams in several countries, including Argentina, Costa Rica, Chile, Ethiopia, India, Myanmar, Peru, Thailand, and Uganda. Their programs aim to deliver care close to the children's homes, enhancing accessibility and community engagement.

Financial Information

As a registered Canadian charity with the Canada Revenue Agency, Transforming Faces ensures strong financial stewardship. A significant portion of their budget is dedicated to programs focused on life-changing cleft care, which is funded by donations. A private charitable foundation covers administrative and fundraising expenses, allowing 100% of charitable donations to support comprehensive cleft care programs directly.

Impact and Recognition

Transforming Faces has been instrumental in empowering local health teams to provide high-quality care and has helped numerous families overcome the challenges associated with cleft conditions. The organization's commitment to comprehensive care has improved the lives of many children, enabling them to lead full and inclusive lives within their communities.