An Abbotsford class is raising funds for an organization that provides free surgery to children in developing countries who were born with a cleft lip or palate.
The Grade 12 social justice class at Mouat Secondary proposes action plans, and this semester they chose to support the Smile Train Foundation, as suggested by student Courtney Holloway.
Holloway's sister was born with a cleft palate and received the required treatment, but it alerted Holloway to the plight of thousands of children who aren't as fortunate.
Holloway said the children supported by Smile Train have faced many struggles, and their families are too poor to ever hope of paying for the surgery themselves.
The students raised funds through pledges for a Vow of Silence that was held on Thursday, Dec. 12 in which they stayed silent and did not use any technology to communicate for 12 hours.
Pledges are still being accepted until Dec. 17 toward the $1,500 goal. These can be made through Holloway via email at misscourtneyholloway@gmail.com.