From Vision to Action: Project Refugee Smiles Lands in Egypt
In 2015, a single act of hate silenced the voices of three remarkable young lives: Deah Barakat, Yusor Abu-Salha, and Razan Abu-Salha. But their legacy didn’t end that day, it began. To honor their compassion and humanitarian spirit, their family and friends founded DYOR Clinic, an initiative dedicated to delivering dental care to underserved communities across the U.S. and around the world as a living Sadaqah jariyah. Before their lives were taken, Deah and Yusor had already launched Project Refugee Smiles, a mission that first brought essential dental care to Syrian refugees in Turkey. Today, DYOR Clinic and HDF continue their vision together, reviving hope and turning their dream into a global movement of mercy, beginning with our joint mission in Cairo, Egypt.
A New Chapter in Egypt
This June, DYOR Clinic and HDF returned to Cairo to deliver critical dental services to those in urgent need. Our mission was more than dental relief but a movement dedicated to dignity, health, and hope. Under the experienced leadership of Dr. Hesham Abdelbaky, a nationally recognized dentist and compassionate community advocate, our dedicated team of 5–7 volunteer dentists, along with skilled assistants and technicians provided essential care to over 300 patients in just five days.
Comprehensive Care, Lasting Impact
Each day, our volunteer-led, patient-focused team offered:
- Fillings to restore dental health and comfort
- Extractions to relieve severe pain and prevent infection
- Root Canals to preserve natural teeth and overall oral health
Beyond immediate relief, our mission prioritized lasting impact:
- All dental equipment and supplies were provided by our teams on the ground
- Remaining supplies and equipment were donated to local clinics, ensuring sustainability and continued care after the mission concluded
- Comprehensive hygiene kits and nutritious food packages were distributed, complementing dental care with broader health support
- Oral health education sessions were conducted to empower individuals with knowledge linking oral hygiene to overall wellness
Why This Matters Now
Egypt is currently facing a growing humanitarian challenge as thousands of Gazan evacuees, Syrian and Sudanese refugees sought refuge from conflict and violence, Egypt became an essential sanctuary. Yet, these displaced families face unimaginable struggles, lacking access to basic healthcare, hygiene essentials and nutrition. For vulnerable Egyptian communities already struggling, the additional influx intensified their hardships. Recognizing this urgent need, our mission focused on: Gazan evacuees displaced by conflict, Sudanese and Syrian refugees escaping violence and underprivileged Egyptian families.
Honoring Their Legacy Through Service
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught us: “When a person dies, their deeds come to an end except for three: ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge, and a righteous child who prays for them.” (Sahih Muslim)
Every act of care provided by our mission is a living Sadaqah jariyah, a continuous charity in honor of Deah, Yusor, and Razan. Their legacy of kindness, compassion and humanitarian service lives on through each life touched, each smile restored and each community uplifted.
Be Part of This Meaningful Journey
This mission in Egypt was only the beginning. Our vision reaches further, driven by urgent needs and fueled by compassionate hearts like yours. At a time when the world’s attention shifts rapidly from one crisis to another, your support ensures continued aid, healing, and hope. Your involvement is crucial in ensuring that the impact of this mission extends beyond our time in Cairo. Each contribution amplifies our capacity to heal, educate, and serve communities in need.
Join us in carrying forward this beautiful legacy of compassion and service.
