Catriona Gray raises ₱442,500 via birthday fundraiser for Smile Train Philippines

February 20 ------ Catriona Gray took to social media to express her gratitude to those who supported her fundraiser for Smile Train Philippines. "THANK YOU to everyone who donated towards my birthday fundraiser this year. I was able to turn over our raised funds of ₱442,500 to @smiletrainph," she posted on her Instagram page.

The former Miss Universe relayed that the said funds would contribute to the various medical procedures and treatments that the organization runs. "This donation will directly benefit the ongoing treatment plans for children and individuals with clefts. This includes surgeries, consultations, orthodontics, and speech therapy," she shared. She added, "Because every child deserves to live a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life. If you’d like to support this incredible cause, you can learn more here at www.smiletrain.org @smiletrain."

Smile Train is the "world's largest cleft-focused organization," as per smiletrain.org. The website added: "Since our founding in 1999, our sustainable model has empowered local medical professionals to provide life-changing, comprehensive cleft care in their own communities. To date, we’ve supported more than two million safe, high-quality cleft surgeries worldwide."

Catriona launched the fundraiser on January 1, days before her birthday on January 6. "My birthday is coming up, and once again I’m hosting a birthday fundraiser for the benefit of Smile Train Philippines @smiletrainph," she posted back in January. "Children born with a cleft are faced with overcoming challenges in eating, breathing, and speaking. As well as the effects on their confidence and self-esteem. @smiletrain offers free, comprehensive cleft care in over 90 countries around the world, and its DONORS like YOU that allow this incredible work to be possible!"

Catriona offered an incentive to those who donated to the fundraiser. "As an added incentive to donate towards Smile Train Philippines for my birthday fundraiser, simply email your proof of donation deposit slip to catriona.info@gmail.com with a minimum donation of ₱2,500 / $43 and I’II create a personalized video greeting for you!" she remarked.

Source: news.abs-cbn.com