Some time ago, Smiles Foundation initiated a program to enable foreigners to make an impact on the lives of underprivileged Dominicans while visiting the country as tourists.
The program was a success and we are pleased to say that Canadians, Americans, French and people from other far away countries have a kind heart and do not spare effort to give generously to those who are in need.

Under this program we have organized visits to our clinics, public schools and orphanages. We have created a tour specially designed for tourists who are interested to find out how the Dominican people really live in their homeland. Since most tourists visit Punta Cana on the East Coast, the tour develops as follows: an English-speaking driver/guide from Turinter picks you up from your hotel and takes you to the nearest town called Higuey. There you visit our "Sonrisas" Clinic, see how we work to improve oral health and preventive knowledge of the community. Upon request, a small group of children can be gathered to receive donations of products that you may bring such as: dental toothpaste, toothbrushes, stationary, school supplies, small toys and personal hygiene products. You can distribute the donations among them yourself! Take in their smiles and share their joy when they receive something that you have brought for them … it is special. You can take pictures and treasure this experience for a lifetime.

The tour doesn't finish there but it continues. We pay a visit to Higuey' most appreciated architectural piece: the Basilica of Our Lady of Altagracia. Designed by French architects A. Dunoyer de Segonzac and Pierre Dupre, the concrete structure is dominated by a 75-metre high arch. After visiting the Basilica, we will take you back to your hotel by lunchtime.

The cost of the tour is US$75 per person and it is necessary to contact us at least one week in advance to reserve it by giving us your name, name of the hotel you will be staying at, week of stay, preferred day to take the tour, list of donations that you might like to take. We will arrange everything for you. The money you pay for the tour helps us to continue our work. Thank you very much for your support and we hope to see you in the Dominican Republic soon.
Testimonial John Collings