Free Clinic receives grant for oral health services

Bagley Downs — The Free Clinic of Southwest Washington received a $10,000 grant from the Dwight and Anna Schwab Charitable Foundation to help fund the children’s oral health program, which serves low-income, uninsured children. Last year, the program served more than 220 visits. The clinic provides oral health services at its location, in Clark County schools and at community-sponsored events. Dental volunteers fill cavities and screen, seal and varnish children’s teeth. The clinic collaborates with elementary schools in the county, the Clark College dental hygiene program and the Clark County Dental Society. “Many of the children we treat have tooth pain severe enough to keep them out of school,” Free Clinic Executive Director Barbe West said in a news release. “We relieve their pain, give tips on preventive care and help them get back to the classroom.”