DENTSPLY Friadent News

Help for the poorest of the poor

14.12.2009 | DENTSPLY Friadent is donating 15,000 euros to the aid organization Mercy Ships

Particularly in times of crisis like the present it is important not to forget those of us most in need of help. They are the least to blame for the global financial crisis but they suffer the most. To relieve their misery DENTSPLY Friadent is this year donating 15,000 euros to the aid organization Mercy Ships, which provides the poor with access to dental and medical care. The organization runs the MS Africa Mercy, a hospital ship that goes where it is most needed anywhere in the world. DENTSPLY Friadent wants to support this sustainable and effective aid project as a sign of the company's interest in providing aid to those who need it.

The global financial crisis has left deep wounds. All over the world people are finding it more difficult to find the basics they need for survival, such as medical care, employment and their daily bread. And, in addition to the financial changes, the crisis has also had an effect on people's perceptions. As recent surveys have demonstrated, values such as personal relationships and the desire for more social cohesion and solidarity have become more important. DENTSPLY Friadent shares the conviction that people not only have a responsibility towards themselves but also towards others – particularly for those who not be able to survive without assistance from strangers.

Aid that saves lives
The Mercy Ships aid organization goes wherever people need help most urgently: regardless of sex, origin or religious belief the hospital ship, which is manned entirely by volunteer aid workers, helps people who urgently needs medical assistance. Highly qualified surgeons, dentists, physicians and nurses are working untiringly for people who would otherwise have had little chance of being cured or even surviving.

The MS Africa Mercy carries not only dental and medical workers. The goal of the organization is to provide support for entire regions. Specialists from a wide range of professions are also included in the mission: in addition to medical assistance teachers, irrigation engineers and agronomists provide expertise and enthusiasm to aid in improving nutrition in the poorest parts of the world. Experts initiate agricultural, construction and other projects and provide training for people so they can continue projects after the MS Africa Mercy has left

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