We're proud to support local charity Once upon a Smile as we celebrate World Smile Day!

Friday 2 October is World Smile Day, but how did it start?

Harvey Ball, a commercial artist from Worcester, Massachusetts created the smiley face in 1963. That image went on to become the most recognisable symbol of good will and good cheer on the planet.

As the years passed Harvey Ball became concerned about the over-commercialization of his symbol, and how its original meaning and intent had become lost in the constant repetition of the marketplace. Out of that concern came his idea for World Smile Day®. He thought that we, all of us, should devote one day each year to smiles and kind acts throughout the world.

TRAFFORDCITY is proud to support Once upon a Smile

What better time than World Smile Day for us to raise awareness of local charity, Once upon a Smile which we're very proud to support.

‘Once Upon a Smile’, supports families following the loss of a parent or sibling. Through our fundraising efforts, we have been so proud that dozens of children and teenagers have been taken away over two residential weekends. In addition we have been able to fund a number of projects for this fantastic charity including the following:

Two summer residential weekends for bereaved children and teenagers

A half-term holiday for five bereaved families

A Wigan Support Group with 141 combined attendees

An annual Christmas Remembrance Service attended by 250 parents and children

Once Upon a Smile has now opened a new facility to help them reach even more families across the region and beyond.

“My daughter doesn’t really speak about her dad with anyone, she returned from the residential with a new friend and shared with me that they spent time talking with each other about how their dads had died. Thank you to Peel L&P for giving her this opportunity.”

Anonymous parent.