Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
All across the nation Friday, dentists and their staffs provided free dental care to underprivileged children as part of the American Dental Association's "Give Kids a Smile" day.
In Indiana, 160 dentists from 90 different offices participated in the program, serving more than 1,000 children.
In Kosciusko County, Dr. Steven C. Hollar, Dr. Beth R. Schimmele and all 12 members of their staff, including three hygienists, volunteered their Friday afternoon to take part in the program.
Hollar said as the President of the North Central Dental Association, which includes 270 dentists, "I felt it was very, very important locally because we do have a need."
While serving only the "tip of the iceberg" of the number of local children who need the care, he said he was very proud of the program. It's not enough, but it's a start, he said.
"Our staff has decided not to work for a paycheck this afternoon," he said Friday. He offered to pay them, but they declined because they all wanted to volunteer.
"Hopefully," he said, "it'll become an annual program and next year more dentists (will) become involved."
He said it would be great if "Give Kids A Smile" day could become the day when the underserved families could count on getting dental care.
Hollar said, "I'm proud of dentists across America who are stepping up to the plate today."
The young patients being served are those Hollar said he wouldn't see on a day-to-day basis. But Friday, each child received complete care - x-rays, exams and cleaning.
To find the children in need of care, Hollar said they contacted Combined Community Services, Head Start, the Boys & Girls Club, the Salvation Army and all Warsaw Community School Corp. school nurses for referrals. He said they got more than they could handle, but they would take care of each and every one.
The program serves children up to 18 years old. "It's a child-specific program," Hollar said.
If they find a child that needs more dental help than the office can offer in one day, he said they will work to make sure the child gets the needed services. "Our day will probably extend beyond today."
If necessary, he said they could refer the child and their family to other local agencies, such as Delta Theta Tau. DTT's mission is to provide emergency dental service for children year-round.
One reason Hollar said he and the staff decided to participate and volunteer was because, "I think the bottom line for us is we feel we've been blessed. We live in a good community and we wanted to give something back."
