Dental care was recently identified as the most prevalent unmet health need in U.S. children
Two Chicago dental professionals — David Turok, DDS, and Evita Sanchez — have joined forces to improve access to dental care. While studying dentistry, Dr. Turok served on various dental mission trips to rural underserved areas in Virginia as well as to Jamaica. Mrs. Sanchez is working toward a master’s in public health and shares a similar passion for outreach dentistry. Their most recent collaboration was providing free dental exams to the athletes in the Special Olympics.
Together, they have come up with an innovative way to actively meet the dental needs of impoverished communities in Chicago. Their vision: The Mobile Plaque Punisher, a mobile dental van fully equipped to provide dentistry needs to the underprivileged, mainly children. Ultimately, they would like to raise $100,000 to turn their dream into a reality.
In an effort to get the mobile dental van project started, Dr. Turok and Mrs. Sanchez are going to attempt to raise $5,000. This will be done through a fundraising Web site called thepoint.com. With this Web site, anyone who would like to support the Mobile Plaque Punisher will be able to via online donations. The contributions will only be counted and processed once the goal of $5,000 is reached. For those who would rather send donations through the mail, they can send money to: David R. Turok, DDS, PC, PO BOX 14015 Chicago, IL 60614
The fundraising campaign centers around having 200 people donate $25 per person. This small gift is a stepping-stone to making dental care accessible to those who desperately need it but cannot afford it.
All efforts are greatly appreciated — please spread the word. E-mail [email protected] if you want to do more or for more information.