Avēsis recently awarded a $250,000 grant to DLN to expand dental care access across the country for individuals who are elderly, medically fragile, or living with disabilities.
“During this time when getting dental treatment is especially difficult for people with special needs, we are so grateful for Avēsis’ wonderful support,” said Fred Leviton, CEO, Dental Lifeline Network.
Since partnering with DLN in 2018, Avēsis, in partnership with its parent company Guardian Life, has contributed $1.2 million, which equals $15 million in donated dental services over the last three years.
“When we embarked on this journey with Dental Lifeline Network, we shared the common goal of reaching individuals who are underserved, uninsured and in desperate need of dental care,” said Chris Swanker, CEO, Avēsis, a Guardian Company. “In the last three years and together with DLN, we’ve made considerable progress in helping increase oral health equity across the U.S. and remain committed to addressing the health barriers that exist for many people as it pertains to quality oral care.”
The latest grant will help DLN extend access to care, as well as volunteer dentist recruitment via targeted statewide programs. The programs include recruiting dental students to volunteer and supporting the Will You See One Vet campaign, a recruitment initiative aimed to engage volunteer dentists to help veterans with special needs. Most veterans do not qualify for dental benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Take for example, Donna, an Army veteran who suffers from a number of health issues that affected both her physical and dental health. Luckily, she was referred to the Will You See One Vet Program and received comprehensive care, including 13 teeth extractions and full dentures to restore her smile — and her confidence.
