Brought To You By Evergreen Life Services; Written by Jana Ford Ambeau
“A SMILE REMAINS THE MOST INEXPENSIVE GIFT YOU CAN BESTOW ON ANYONE AND YET ITS POWERS CAN VANQUISH KINGDOMS.” – OG MANDINO
A smile is a powerful gesture that can brighten anyone’s day, yet not everyone has the ability to share one. This is especially true for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, who often face significant barriers in accessing proper dental care. Recognizing this urgent need, Evergreen Life Services has launched the Smile-Makers Club, a new monthly giving program aimed at making a substantial difference in the lives of those we serve.
The Smile-Makers Club allows compassionate community members to contribute small, monthly donations that collectively have a big impact. Many members of the Evergreen family are not fully covered for essential dental services. This lack of coverage often limits their options when they visit the dentist, resulting in untreated dental issues that can lead to more severe health problems.
Last year, Evergreen Life Services invested over $300,000 in dental services to ensure that our residents received comprehensive dental care. These funds, which could have been used to enhance or add services for those with developmental disabilities in the communities we serve, were allocated to dental care because it is critical to the overall well-being of our residents.
The inefficiencies of Medicaid exacerbate the issue. Medicaid often falls short in covering the full spectrum of dental services needed by individuals with developmental disabilities. Additionally, the dwindling number of dental offices that accept Medicaid patients further restricts access to necessary care. This gap in coverage and access highlights the desperate need for alternative funding sources to provide essential dental services.
By joining the Smile-Makers Club, you can help bridge this gap and ensure that our residents receive the dental care they need. Here’s how your monthly contribution can make a difference:
• $10 per Month: This modest amount can cover a trip to the dentist and a basic cleaning for one of the 100 individuals we serve locally in Central Louisiana.
• $15 per Month: This contribution can fill a painful cavity, preventing it from being pulled—a common outcome under many governmental services—and helping to restore a healthy smile.
Proper dental care is crucial for maintaining overall health and quality of life. Untreated dental issues can lead to severe pain, infections, and even more serious health complications. For individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, regular dental visits are essential to prevent these issues and ensure they can enjoy a happy, healthy life.
Become a SMILE MAKER every month and soon you will see more and more smiles every day because of the difference you have made.
Your generous monthly donation will directly impact the lives of those we serve, ensuring they receive the comprehensive dental care they need and deserve. Together, we can create a community where everyone can share a smile.
To join the Smile-Makers Club, contact Jana Ambeau, Director of Development – CenLa Division through email jana.ambeau@evergreenls.org or call/text (318) 451-5311. You may also visit Evergreen Life Services https://evergreenls.org and sign up for monthly giving. Your support is invaluable and will make a lasting difference in the lives of many.
Thank you for considering this opportunity to transform lives through the gift of a smile.
