Olde Towne Medical Center has made it a mission to get kids smiling, and keep those pearly whites healthy for years to come.
For five years, the nonprofit facility has held “Give Kids a Smile,” a day that gives free dental treatment to children living in the greater Williamsburg area. This year’s event will be from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.
Exams, cleanings, X-rays, fillings and other services are provided completely free of cost. All Medicaid-eligible children up to age 21, as well as children from low income families are welcome.
Families should bring some proof of income if possible, or explanation of extenuating circumstances, and call 259-3255 for more information on financial qualifications.
Pre-registration is preferred, but board member Judi Forehand Woods said walk-in are accepted as well. There is space to accommodate between 150 and 200 visitors.
“We even bring in extra dental chairs from the Virginia Dental Association,” she said.
“Give Kids a Smile” was founded by Dr. Robert F. Morrison, who has been volunteering with Olde Towne Medical center for 16 years.
Many of the dentists who volunteer on an ongoing basis will provide services for the event, in addition to regular staff.
“It’s really an amazing and collaborative program,” Woods said, who added volunteer support has increased each year since the start.
In addition to dental care, children will receive a goody bag with supplies and a coupon to Chik-fil-A, one of the event sponsors. They will also have the chance to learn more about proper nutrition, which has been added since the beginning of the program to offer more comprehensive care to children.
Face painting and other children’s activities will provide fun and seek to make the day a positive experience for all.
“The goal of course is to give to give kids a smile,” Woods said. “We want to take care of their smile, and we want them not to be afraid, and to come back.”
For more information or to register, call 259-3255.
