Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has selected Mercy Ships as its Charity of Choice in an effort to promote health and well-being in developing nations.
Mercy Ships provides training for medical professionals, as well as curative surgical interventions, aboard its floating hospitals. The partnership will also help the organization gain increased visibility in the cruise industry and facilitate collaboration with CLIA and its members.
“The partnership is a natural fit, and we are delighted to be working with this reputable organization who is making a positive difference in the world,” said Thomas P. Ostebo, president and CEO of CLIA.
Mercy Ships offers free healthcare services, capacity building and sustainable development to nations throughout the developing world. In the past, volunteers have been able to provide a range of services, including:
- 78,000 life-changing operations such as cleft lip and palate repair, cataract removal, orthopedic procedures and facial reconstruction
- 353,000 dental procedures
- Trained 5,800 local teachers
- Trained 35,300 local professionals in their area of expertise (anesthesiology, midwifery, orthopedic and reconstructive surgery and leadership)
- Basic healthcare education classes for 183,000 local people
- 1,100 community development projects focusing on water and sanitation, education, infrastructure development and agriculture
CLIA is the largest cruise industry trade association operating 15 offices globally, and has representation in North and South America, Europe, Asia and Australia.
Visit www.cruising.org and www.mercyships.org