News & Events

Something to Smile About...

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August 09, 2018

Everyone smiles in the same language, but it's easy to take good oral health for granted...

...unless you're homeless.

We know that remaining cavity-free is important, but research and statistics emphasize the significance dental hygiene plays in our overall physical health. Unfortunately, one of the common challenges with the homeless is having resources like regular checkups available.

But thanks to Elk Grove Dental Group and Orthodontics, seven individuals received dental exams, cleanings, restorations, and a huge boost to self-confidence!

The generous staff of the Elk Grove location, which is affiliated with Pacific Dental Services, held its annual Smile Generation Serve Day, an event focused on giving back to the community by providing dental work at no cost to those who otherwise can't afford it.

Elk Grove Dental Group offers reasonably-priced services in a convenient location, using advanced proven technology to keep smiles looking their best. They pride themselves in service, with same-day crowns and even orthodontics among the many procedures they have to offer.

Office Manager Alexandra Wilson worked closely with Elk Grove HART board member Debbie Schoeneshoefer to fine-tune details and provide excellent patient care. Smile Generation Serve Day was held this past Saturday, August 4, and because of the generosity of these professionals, and the assistance of local volunteer Amy Mendoza, seven smiles have been brightened!

Dr. Inaksh Johal chats with one of the patients participating in Smile Generation Serve Day

Thank you to the Lyon Cares Foundation for their recent $5,000 donation to HART!

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July 30, 2018

Repulsion or Compassion?

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June 06, 2018

Repulsion or compassion—it was a decision I had to make in a split second. His feet were blistered, with fresh wounds oozing. He wanted to try on the new shoes donated from the Elk Grove Church of Christ. The guests at HART's Winter Sanctuary had been waiting for weeks for these promised shoes and he didn't want to miss out. He wanted them on his feet. Now.

"You're next in line for a shower. Why don't you wait to try them on?"

But he was adamant, "Someone else might take them. Please." His desperate plea won me over. Fresh socks and bandages didn't make sense before taking a shower, so I carefully put the shoes on his feet, trying not to hurt him. His face lit up like a kid on Christmas morning. "Can I really have these?"

Disbelief was common during the 12 weeks of HART's Winter Sanctuary. Why would people care enough to give out new shoes, feed delicious hot meals, drive in the pouring rain and then pick everyone up at dawn, to hang out with them, to become friends.

Repulsion or compassion is often a decision many of us must make every day when encountering a homeless person. Love or hate, selfishness or selflessness. Lives are always changed during our 12-Week Winter Sanctuary, because over 1,000 volunteers choose selfless compassion. Thank you volunteers of Elk Grove HART's Winter Sanctuary! You have made Elk Grove a better place.