As dental students in North Philadelphia, we see a diverse population of patients. Many times, we cannot continue or complete treatment because patients are unable to afford the treatment they need. It becomes increasingly evident that there are people in need. Volunteering is a win-win. It helps those in need; it helps volunteers develop as an individual and gives purpose to their lives. When a group of people work with a common goal, it strengthens community ties and when the goal is beneficence, it adds to the wellness of all.
Kornberg School of Dentistry requires students to participate in some type of outreach. Each experience is eye opening. Temple ASDA’s Outreach team allows for students to participate in community service that goes beyond oral care. This semester, the events included as follows.
Cradles to Crayons - 10/09/19
The plan for this event is to have a group of students go to the Cradles to Crayons facility and help pack and sort clothing that will go to children living in poverty in Philadelphia. We hope to get a big turn out from students and help those children in Philadelphia who do not have clothing or school supplies.
Oral Health and Hygiene Education - 10/18/19
About 30 dental students went to Mary McLeod Bethune Elementary School to teach kids about the importance of oral hygiene and hand out dental kits as an after school program. This included general oral health questions, interactive demonstrations, and a question and answer period. We think the dental students did a great job connecting with the children and emphasized the importance of oral hygiene through fun. We hope to host a similar event at another elementary school this semester.
Canned Food and Clothing Drive - 11/20/19 to 12/20/19
Every year, ASDA has a canned food and clothing drive where the clinics and preclinic collect food and clothing. This is a fun little competition where the “tea
m” that donates the most, gets a pizza party but at the same time we are able to help those in need around the holiday times. All donations will be given to shelters in Philadelphia. This year, cluster one was able to collect the most donations.
Thank you to everyone who has participated and offered their time and efforts thus far. We hope to continue to make an impact throughout 2020!