In the first semester of 2023, ‘The Smile of a Child’ provided unwavering support to 60,468 children and their families, marking an impressive 56 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2022. The organisation, dedicated to safeguarding children’s well-being, released compelling statistics during a recent press conference, showcasing their commitment to transforming young lives in Greece.
Notably, the call for assistance increased by 12 per cent in cases involving missing children and teenagers, while reports of child abuse and neglect rose by 17 per cent.
Undeterred, the organisation continues its essential work, providing vital services, medical support, and creating a brighter future for thousands of vulnerable children.
During the press conference, ‘The Smile of a Child’ highlighted its four hotlines, which responded to a staggering 114,991 calls in the first half of 2023, with an average waiting time of merely 12 seconds. The organisation’s dedication to providing immediate assistance and support shone through, as they received an average of 240 calls per day, with every 3.5 hours alerting competent authorities about a child in danger.
“Every family is different, with different needs and experiences and we have to support them individually, in order for them to be able to be functional again,” said Sophia Kouchi, Social Worker and Coordinator of the 16 Support Centers in Greece. Focused on the holistic approach and the harmonised cooperation of all the departments the Organisation achieved holistic support for 11.220 children and families facing serious welfare problems.
‘The Smile of a Child’ also underlined the critical role of its Homes and Day Care Centers, where 1,055 children have been provided with a loving home environment while its successful reunification efforts led to 524 children being reintegrated into their families or placed in foster care or adoption, emphasising its commitment to every child’s well-being.
Meanwhile, specialised services and accomplishments were lauded during the press conference, with recognition for their upcoming award as the best Volunteer Organization in Greece at the Hellenic Responsible Business Awards of 2023.
It is worth mentioning that Vera Tsihli, the coordinator of the Volunteering Department, confirmed the engagement of 6.116 volunteers, children and adults.
“The cornerstone of the Organization is its volunteers. Volunteer adults, children, who respond to our call, for what? In order to give children their best Smile,” she said.
‘The Smile of a Child’ remains steadfast in its mission, ensuring equal health rights and services for all children, irrespective of their background.
Significant announcements about the transformation of two Homes into Day Care Homes, the establishment of an Accommodation Center for Unaccompanied Minors in collaboration with the Ministry of Migration and Asylum, and the Semi-Independent Living Program underscore the organization’s commitment to continuous improvement.
Throughout the conference, touching stories of resilience and hope showcased the profound impact of ‘The Smile of a Child’ on children and families facing challenging circumstances.
Finally, Georgina Tsanga, coordinator of the European Student Volunteer Network ‘YouSmile’ stressed the importance of student volunteering saying “Through YouSmile, children are trained through their experience and daily contact with the people of “The Smile” to observe what is happening around them, which can be seen from the numbers, as 175 student-volunteers participated in 515 actions. They learn to care, and to react creatively and helpfully”. She concluded with a heartwarming story of a YouSmiler.”The Smile of the Child” firmly supports every child, every family that is experiencing a difficult situation, whether it is financial, social, health or other, so that in the future they can face the demands of life on their own in the best possible way. The trust of those who support ‘The Smile of the Child’ is vital because without you… it is not possible!”The organisation’s efforts to provide holistic support, mental health services, and therapeutic interventions were particularly highlighted, and their dedication to nurturing a generation of caring, empathetic individuals through student volunteering was celebrated.
