Delta Dental of Missouri – the state’s leading dental benefits provider and a non-profit organization – is now welcoming applications from eligible organizations across the state for its life-changing oral health grants. To date, Delta Dental of Missouri’s mission-giving initiatives have provided millions in support of oral health initiatives and educational programming. This funding has played a critical role in maintaining and expanding the efforts of organizations that align with its mission to improve oral health and help Missourians of all ages access vital dental treatment and educational services. Eligibility requirements and directions for applying for a grant can be found online at https://www.deltadentalmo.com/AboutUs/oral-health-grant-program.
One of the many organizations benefiting from Delta Dental of Missouri’s charitable initiatives is the Jefferson City-based Dental Lifeline Network and its Missouri Donated Dental Services (DDS) program, which has received 11 grants, totaling $315,000 from the company since 2011. The funding has helped to provide thousands of individuals in need with millions in comprehensive dental treatments they otherwise would be unable to afford. Dental Lifeline Network’s DDS program was established in 1999, in partnership with the Missouri Dental Association to provide much-needed dental care to the disabled, elderly and those lacking adequate income. The organization has 352 volunteer dentists and 94 dental labs providing any treatment necessary to bring the patient to a state of full oral health and relies on critical grant funding to provide millions in treatment to as many residents in need as possible.
The volunteer dentists and their staff members make an incredible impact on patients like Chloe, a 28-year-woman who had experienced significant dental challenges as a result of a rare medical issue. Thanks to a team of volunteer dentists, Chloe was able to receive life-changing treatment that completely restored her smile.
“The Donated Dental Services program and the volunteers have been lifesaving and a blessing in my life,” said Chloe. “I love how they have been there from start to finish during my treatment. I now have a beautiful smile and more confidence. My work and everyday interactions in life are better due to the treatment I have received from the wonderful doctors and DDS program.”
Lynda Ricketson, president and CEO of Dental Lifeline Network said, “Delta Dental of Missouri has been an amazing partner in our work since 1999. Its generosity has been critical in our mission to offer free dental treatment to elderly, disabled and medically fragile people in Missouri who have no other options. Their funding has made it possible to provide over $11 million worth of donated dental treatment to 2,382 people. The Delta Dental participating dentists who provide this care also appreciate Delta Dental of Missouri’s continued support. We would encourage other dental organizations to partner with Delta Dental of Missouri towards their goals.”
In 2022 alone, Delta Dental of Missouri provided almost $700,000 in funding to 24 organizations across Missouri. By donating to a variety of organizations that align with its mission, Delta Dental of Missouri has been able to help thousands of children and adults get vital dental treatment and services to enhance their overall health and quality of life. The company awards grants for general operations, programs, projects and capacity-building efforts promoting the oral health of individuals in Missouri. Objectives of its grant program include:
- Reducing oral disease through education, prevention and treatment
- Ensuring access to affordable, timely and high-quality dental care
- Enhancing the awareness of good oral health with a focus on children and individuals in need
- Making a measurable difference in the oral health of Missourians
- Helping to ensure that Missouri is among the states with the highest indicators of oral health.
To be eligible for an oral health grant from Delta Dental of Missouri, applicants in Missouri must first complete a letter of inquiry through the online application system at https://www.deltadentalmo.com/AboutUs/oral-health-grant-program, which includes program guidelines and application instructions. Organizations that would like to be considered for the second grant cycle of 2023 must submit online letters of inquiry by August 25, 2023, and online applications are due on September 1, 2023. Applicants must be considered tax-exempt under 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, or be a public or governmental entity, such as a public school or health department, and serve the people of Missouri.
About Delta Dental of Missouri
Delta Dental of Missouri is the state’s leading dental benefits provider and a 501(c)(4) non-profit organization. It provides more than 2.13 million members with access to affordable, high-quality dental care through group plans tailored to meet the needs of organizations of all sizes, from large corporations to small businesses with two or more employees. Delta Dental also offers dental benefit plans directly to individuals and families. It also provides access to affordable, high-quality vision care through group vision benefit plans. The company proudly supports oral health initiatives, educational programs and charitable causes that help educate people about the importance of dental health and provide free dental care to those in need. Delta Dental of Missouri also created the Missouri Dental Care Resource Guide to help individuals access information about low-cost and free dental care options in their area—available online at www.DeltaDentalMO.com/ResourceGuide1. To learn more about the company, visit www.DeltaDentalMO.com.
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For more information, contact:
Kelly Harris
(314)436-9090