THE team at Didim’s Sevil Smile Studio has helped to raise enough funds to provide 279 bicycles for youngsters in eastern Turkey.

The dental studio, owned and operated by Sevil Pekmezci, decided to organize fundraising, in collaborations with local volunteers. “These are unprecedented times, and due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we had restricted travel to the clinic, so the time we had spare, we wanted to put it to use by doing something that would help others in need,” Sevil explained.

“We know children of all ages love cycling – it’s fast and fun, and gives them a sense of freedom while making pleasant childhood memories.”

Working with the local teams and volunteers, they bought 279 bicycles, then organised them to be individually packed, shipped and distributed to orphans and children in need between the ages of 5 and 18 in eastern Turkey.

She added: “We arranged for the bikes to arrive just in time so the children could open their new presents for the local festival. Despite all the logistics and hard work, knowing that everything arrived on time and watching the joy on the children’s faces as they started riding their new bikes, made it an extra special day we won’t forget.

“This has given the team and myself amazing satisfaction to make such a difference. The children will remember their first bike forever as we all did as a child having adventures riding around.  Thank you to all involved who made it happen sourcing the bikes and getting them to the children.”