MINNEAPOLIS, July 30, 2012 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Delta Dental of Minnesota awarded a $78,000 grant to the Minnesota Dental Foundation (MDF) in support of the Minnesota Donated Dental Services (DDS) program. The grant will cover ongoing operating expenses in the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2012, and will generate $960,000 in free, comprehensive dental care to 260 vulnerable Minnesotans.
Established in 2003 by Dental Lifeline Network-Minnesota (DLMN) in partnership with the Minnesota Dental Association, the DDS program provides access to comprehensive pro bono dental care for Minnesotans who have disabilities or who are elderly or medically at risk and unable to afford care for serious dental conditions.
Since its inception:
The DDS program has served 1,451 patients
Total value of services provided topped $5.3 million
In the last fiscal year:
Patients received an average of $4,195 in care
Volunteers contributed $14.16 worth of care for every dollar spent - one of the highest ratios among all DDS programs nationally
444 dentists and 151 labs participated in providing care
Previously, funds to coordinate the program had been provided by the State of Minnesota; however, in 2011 that funding was cut. Without additional funding from outside organizations, the program's ability to serve these vulnerable populations would have been seriously jeopardized.
"The Minnesota Dental Foundation is extremely grateful to Delta Dental of Minnesota for this generous gift, which will ensure the ongoing operation of this very successful program," stated Dr. Steve Litton, MDF President. "We look forward to continuing our collaboration with Delta Dental on initiatives that advance our mutual missions."
Rodney Young, Chief Executive Officer and President of Delta Dental of Minnesota, underscores Delta Dental's goal to support programs that address the oral health needs of underserved individuals and populations. "Delta Dental of Minnesota is honored to partner with the Minnesota Dental Association and its Foundation and the hundreds of volunteer dentists and dental labs in helping 260 vulnerable Minnesotans and continuing to make this program successful."
The Minnesota Dental Association is the voice of dentistry in Minnesota, representing 78% of practicing dentists. It is committed to the highest standards of oral health and access to care for all Minnesotans. Learn more at: www.mndental.org .
SOURCE Minnesota Dental Association
