China to offer free plastic surgery to heroes

BEIJING - A project has been launched to offer free plastic surgeries to low-income heroes.

Such heroes and heroines are, specifically, those injured when taking brave actions for just causes, especially stopping ongoing crimes and rescuing people in emergency situations.

A verification process has been put in place to select qualified candidates, according to a press release issued after "Rainbow China Project" launch ceremony on Sunday.

The online application requires a certificate from local authorities verifying a candidate's economic status and a police report documenting their heroic deeds.

The project's administrative committee has promised to complete examinations and investigations within a month and publish the results on its website.

Qualified applicants may receive free plastic surgeries at the nearest participating hospital, said the document, adding that nearly 200 hospitals are expected to be added to the list.

The project, jointly promoted by several charity federations and public foundations, will also cover three impoverished groups -- those with birth defects such as cleft lips, those suffering from failed surgeries and those being discriminated against due to unpleasant appearances.

Over 500 candidates are expected to receive help each year, with the project offering more than 30 million yuan ($4.77 million) for their surgeries, said the document.