Over the past week the San Pedro Smile Center was on the island for the first time this year, giving free dental service to children from Monday, January 23rd through Thursday January 26th. The volunteers were at the Holy Cross Anglican School offering services to children ages 4-12.
Volunteers on this trip include Dr. Paul Roggou and his wife, Linda, who have been visiting to perform volunteer dental work for the past four years; Bonnie Musbach, resident of San Pedro and volunteer for four years, and Bridgette Cooper, dental hygienist and first time volunteer to Belize. It was also Dental Assistant Susan Halek’s first time volunteering in Belize. Dr. Steve Bender and wife Sue are currently enjoying their 17th trip to Belize, providing dental care to the people of the country.
Along with visiting dentists, the volunteers offered services such as fillings, cleanings, sealants and fluoride treatments. According to Dr. Mark, they have been seeing children showing signs of tooth decay and in need of general cleaning and education on how to properly brush and floss.
Excited at the opportunity to use their talents and services to help those who were in need for dental health, the volunteers stated, “We are blessed to come and help out at the Holy Cross school.”
Travelling expenses and all costs related to the volunteering efforts at the Smile Center are paid by the volunteers themselves. The next clinic is scheduled for February 6th through 9th and is open to all children of Ambergris Caye.
