In May, we shared details about a partnership between two dental giants—The Alpha Omega International Dental Fraternity and Henry Schein Inc.—to provide no-cost dental care to economically disadvantaged Holocaust survivors. There’s a somber and fascinating video on YouTube that helps explain this unique effort.
Also prominently involved with The Alpha Omega-Henry Schein Cares Holocaust Survivors Oral Health Program is Freeport, NY-based Town & Country Dental Studios, as National Laboratory Partner for the initiative.
In December 2014, Stephen Lampert, Laboratory Manager, Town and Country Dental Studios, and leadership from Henry Schein, Alpha Omega International Dental Fraternity and philanthropic organizations attended the White House Convening on Holocaust Survivor Dental Services, hosted by the White House Office of Social Innovation and Civic Participation, to discuss the upcoming launch of the Alpha Omega-Henry Schein Cares Holocaust Survivors Oral Health Program.
“We are so proud to support this great program, which will help Holocaust survivors live healthier, more comfortable lives,” said Lampert. “We have worked with Henry Schein for a long time, and it gives us tremendous pleasure to build upon our strong partnership by participating with the company on a program that will bring much needed oral care to a most deserving and at-risk population.”
To date, the Alpha Omega-Henry Schein Cares Holocaust Survivors Oral Health Program has provided oral care to more than 130 economically vulnerable Holocaust survivors in Boston, Chicago, Detroit, New York City, the New York/New Jersey metro area, Philadelphia, Seattle, Montreal, and Toronto.
Seattle's Holocaust Center for Humanity honored participating local dentists Nov. 2 at a reception. Seattle Mayor Edward B. Murray issued a proclamation declaring Nov. 2, 2015 "Alpha Omega International Dental Fraternity Day." In Seattle, dental practitioners have treated 8 survivors and are currently treating 6 more.
The individuals who participte are referred directly through the local Jewish Family and Children's Service agency or another local partner organization. In addition to financial need, the 3 critical factors in prioritizing patients for participation are: elimination of pain, restoraing function, and lack of dental coverage. A clear set of clinical guidelines direct the specific scope of care provided through the program.
