PRESS RELEASE

Plainfield Neighborhood Health Services Corporation Participates in Give Kids A Smile!

National Children’s Dental Access Day

Plainfield, NJ, February 17--In conjunction with the American Dental Association, Crest Healthy Smiles, The New Jersey Dental Association, Harry Schein, and Plainfield Health Center hosted its Fourth Annual Give Kids A Smile Day. Give Kids A Smile Day, Chairperson, Maryellen Mascolo, CDA. RDH, stated, “There were many volunteers helping to make this program a success throughout the state of New Jersey and at the health center in particular.” Balloons place around the department created a festive atmosphere along with; fun activities aimed at educating the children on good oral health while providing entertainment made the event a success evident by the happy smiles on the faces of all the children who participated in the program. It is estimated that over 100 children came presented for their dental check-ups. Maryellen is hopeful that the event will continue to set record numbers of participates for the years to come.

Employees volunteered to help disseminate information on the annual event and more importantly, raise public awareness on dental disease as described by the U.S. Surgeon General as a “silent epidemic.” This program is designed to encourage parents and guardians who are caretakers for children to address this issue in their homes and communities. While dental health in children is a serious topic, Plainfield Health Center created a fun place for the children as they waited their turn to sit in the dental chair. Activities included movies, coloring in the coloring books, pencil drawings and playing games. Each child left with a balloon and a big smile.

“We are very pleased with the success of this annual outreach activity conducted by our Dental Department which has increased awareness of good oral health, provided screenings and enrolled over 100 patients for ongoing dental care” explained President and CEO, Rudine Smith. Medical Director, Susan Walsh who strongly supports the program said “Children deserve our strongest efforts when it comes to oral health. No child should suffer the pain and disfigurement of poor dental care or even worse no access to dental care.” “We at PHC are delighted to be among the many dental programs across the country to welcome our youngest patients on this special Give Kids A Smile Day.”

Siddeeq El-Amin, Chairman for the PNHSC Board of Directors stated, “As both a parent and grandparent, I am keenly aware of the importance of regular dental care. This program is vitally important to the health of our community.”

Plainfield Neighborhood Health Services Corporation mission is to provide high quality oriented and cost-effective primary health care services in a safe and accessible environment for the residents of our primary service areas and the residents of central New Jersey. The Plainfield Neighborhood Health Services Corporation is especially dedicated to providing culturally and linguistically appropriate services and consistent, high quality primary healthcare services to the medically needy and indigent population of these communities.

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