SIOUX FALLS, SD (KELO-AM) - The Sioux Empire United Way is literally "putting it's money where the mouth is", sponsoring a free dental care session for kids in the area who's families may be financially challenged.
The project, called "Sioux Empire Smiles"....and the clinic is for children through 18 years of age who are in need of dental care or who may not have seen a dentist in several years. Dentists and their auxiliaries will donate their time and services to provide dental screenings, treatments, such as fillings, extractions and cleanings, and education to children in need within the Sioux Empire. Project organizers plan to see as many children as possible, with the goal of providing free services to 150, or more, children during the event.
"The most recent Department of Health surveys indicate that more than a thousand children in Sioux Falls schools are in need of urgent dental care," said Damon Thielen, Program Director and Board Certified Pediatric Dentist. "There are several public health disparities facing the children of the Sioux Empire. Oral health is a key component which is often overlooked. We aim to help eliminate barriers and deliver care to children in need."
“The Sioux Empire United Way was thrilled with the results of Sioux Empire Smiles in 2015. There continues to be significant need for dental care in our community,” said Monie Siemonsma, Sioux Empire United Way Volunteer Community Impact Chair. “We are happy to help meet that need through this event.”
The clinic will take place on Saturday, October 1, starting at 9:00 a.m. at Children’s Dental Center at 3813 South Kiwanis Circle in Sioux Falls. Organizers say get there early, children will be seen on a first come, first served basis. Children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Sioux Empire Smiles is a program of the Southeastern District Dental Society and the South Dakota Dental Foundation and is made available through funding from Sioux Empire United Way. Additional information can be found at http://www.seuw.org/sioux-empire-smiles-2016.