Recently Dr. Mary Lashley, Professor Community Health Nursing Towson University and Helping Up Mission Board of Directors, reported the results of dental services to the men of HUM.
In June 2013, finishing 7 years of dental services, the 1,000th HUM resident was treated.
Highlights of these past 7 years:
- 1,007 residents served to date
- 747 aspiring dental and nursing professionals positively impacted
- 100% of clients completing exit surveys indicate satisfaction with dental care received
- 99% of aspiring health professionals surveyed indicate willingness to work with homeless and underserved populations as a result of this experience
- 88% graduation rate from one-year residential program for clients completing restorative dental care (compared to 18% of general population)
- 70% employment rate for clients completing restorative dental care
In addition, Dr. Lashley noted the annual Dental Access Days Events:
- Served 270 homeless and underserved clients from five organizations across the State of Maryland
- Mobilized over 100 volunteers
- Performed over 1,800 treatment procedures
- Provided nearly $370,000 in free dental care at a cost of less than $16,000.
Dr. Lashley gave special recognition to local dentist Dr. Nancy Ward who has championed this cause from the beginning and HUM’s James Hill who continues to coordinate the program here.
And we thank Dr. Lashley for envisioning the project from its inception and shepherding it through to this day!
May 1,007 smiles forever brighten all of your days!
Pastor Gary Byers
Deputy Director