FARO HOSPITAL’S paediatric unit was among the 19 units from around the country to receive a much-needed donation of new medical equipment, as part of the Missão Sorriso campaign (Mission Smile), promoted by the Modelo-Continente supermarket group.
More than 250 pieces of equipment, valued at 700,000 euros, have been distributed as a result of the successful fundraising initiative. The hospitals chosen to receive the free equipment were selected in areas where a Modelo or Continente supermarket serves the local community.
The money was raised through the sale of a children’s book/CD, entitled Leopoldina e o Mundo Encantado dos Brinquedos. The book/CD, priced at two euros a copy, was sold at Modelo and Continente stores throughout Portugal and, for every copy sold, one euro was donated to the campaign. .
According to Duarte Santos, who is responsible for Faro Hospital’s paediatric unit, the donation has made it possible for some of the older medical equipment to be replaced. The most important piece of new equipment donated to the unit was a heart defibrillator, which could help to save many children’s lives.
