Funds will be used to provide emergency care for low-income uninsured adults

Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry (Outreach) was recently awarded a Dr. William R. Bosien Fund Grant in the amount of $5,500 from the Polk County Community Foundation.
This grant will allow Outreach to pay for the cost of office visits and treatment at the Collins Dental Center Adult Emergency Clinic or Dentistry 2000 for low-income, uninsured adults in need of emergency dental care.  “We are extremely grateful to the Polk County Community Foundation and to the generosity and forethought of Dr. Bosien,” said Carol Newton, Executive Director of Outreach.
While Outreach does not provide direct medical or dental services, local medical facilities often refer low-income patients to the agency for assistance.  “We see many clients at the point when a dental concern becomes a medical issue.  At that time, we assist with payments for emergency extractions, root canals and other necessary procedures.”
“Many people know how expensive dental care can be; however, when you are uninsured, underinsured or waiting to meet your insurance deductible, the cost of dental care can be truly prohibitive,” said Michelle Reedy, Outreach’s Client Service Manager.  “The grant funds awarded by PCCF will be a tremendous help to Outreach in caring for our clients.”
Outreach is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1991.  The organization’s mission is to provide compassionate assistance to Polk County residents who are unable to provide for their basic life needs.  For more information on Outreach, please visit www.tboutreach.org or call 828-894-2988.

— article submitted
by Wendy Thomas