We’re thrilled to announce that Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation has awarded grant funding in the amount of $10,000 to Esperanca to expand our Oral Health program for pre-school and elementary children in Phoenix.

On March 8th, 2012, Delta Dental presented Tom Egan, president and CEO and Maria Valenzuela, Community Health Coordinator of Esperanca with the check.  The funds will be used to hire, train and equip staff to provide oral health education to children ages 4-12 in the Isaac and Cartwright school districts and parents of 0-5 year olds enrolled in Head Star/Early Head Start.

 

Children and parents who receive services through this project live in communities that have poverty levels two to three times the national average and misinformation about children’s oral health is rampant.  Many students from both districts have no access to regular dental care, and proper brushing, flossing, and other preventative care may not be taught in the home.

In addition to oral health education, all participants will receive oral hygiene kits with a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss so that they are able to practice what they learned at the trainings.

Corporate support means everything to our programs and we’re so grateful for the donation from Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation.  Their generous donation will allow us to expand our program and reach more children and families throughout Phoenix, Maryvale and the Golden Gate community.