In 1988, 232-HELP recognized that there was a significant unmet need for dental treatment for the elderly, disabled and medically compromised. These clients fall into a “gray area” who cannot afford regular dental visits and with limited public assistance chronic oral health problems are not addressed. The Donated Dental Program was developed to address this unmet need.
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This program has grown to include over 70 volunteer dentists in 10 parishes provide oral health care to qualified clients, free of charge in their offices. In 2014, over $200 thousand in treatment value was donated, bringing the total for the program to over $2.5 million in treatment value. Our mission is to make an important difference in the health and quality of life of those who have been compromised by disability or advanced age. We accomplish our mission by providing access to oral health care.

Each year 232-HELP honors one of the dentists in our Donated Dental Program who has exceeded what is asked of our volunteers, and has shown exceptional compassion for our clients who are the most vulnerable. The Dentist of the Year award is given by 232-HELP to a dentist who goes above and beyond what is asked of its volunteer dentists. To see our past recipients click HERE.