25th March 2019, Abu Dhabi, UAE:   Abu Dhabi Airports has contributed to Operation Smile UAE’s textile recycling initiative by hosting three of its textile donation banks at its facilities, and inspiring its employees to donate hundreds of kilos of clothes and accessories to the internationally recognized medical humanitarian organization. 

The initiative was launched by Operation Smile UAE in an effort to increase funding for its organization of free and safe reconstructive surgeries for children and young adults born with cleft lip, cleft palate and other facial deformities.

Abu Dhabi Airports hosted one textile donation bank at its Headquarters near Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH), and a further two banks spread across the Midfield Terminal Building (MTB) project site. The banks collected a total of 730 kilograms of clean wearable clothes, bags, belts, and shoes which were deposited for donation by Abu Dhabi Airports’ staff.

The donated textiles are recycled and sold internationally in bulk by Operation Smile UAE to fund life-altering reconstructive surgeries for children around the globe.

Mohammed Al Katheeri, SVP Strategy & Communications at Abu Dhabi Airports, said: “Supporting and participating in humanitarian initiatives like the one held by Operation Smile, forms a part of our ongoing Corporate Social Responsibility program. We are delighted to be able to contribute to charitable initiatives that benefit those in need and showcase the UAE’s humanitarian spirit.”

“We would like to express our appreciation and pride in all our employees who chose to contribute to Operation Smile’s textile recycling initiative, and look forward to continuing to work closely with local and international organizations to support communities around the world,” added Al Katheeri.
   
Operation Smile is an international medical humanitarian organization that organizes free and safe reconstructive surgeries for children and young adults born with cleft lip, cleft palate and other facial deformities, through thousands of medical volunteers, advocates and donors. Operation Smile UAE is a legally registered charity under the UAE Ministry of Community Development.