Increasing Access To Dental Care For Pittsburgh Youth

By Liam Carstens

BBF provided a grant this spring to support Casa San Jose and their program that provides dental treatment for children in need in Western Pennsylvania. The families who mainly benefit from this program are uninsured or underinsured. Treatment is routinely provided through several clinics which include the Squirrel Hill Health Center and the University of Pittsburgh Dental School.

This program originated when many parents came forward seeking treatment for their children who were experiencing severe pain due to decay and a lack of access to dental care. Many young people have benefited from these services which is otherwise unavailable. As recently as April, Casa San Jose scheduled 30 children at the Squirrel Hill Health Center. Of the 26 who attended, five had a severe condition that required a referral to the University of Pittsburgh Dental School. This ongoing program continues with the cooperation and support of the Squirrel Hill Health Center, University of Pittsburgh, and Casa San Jose.

BBF is very pleased to partner with Casa San Jose once again to support this valuable program to provide dental care in our community.