Good oral health habits start early, and every child deserves the care and support needed to build a healthy smile for life. With this in mind, Jessie Trice Community Health System (JTCHS), in collaboration with the Miami-Dade County Dental Society, recently hosted its annual Give Kids a Smile Day at the JTCHS Corporate Office Complex, providing uninsured patients with free dental and vision services.
“Cost and limited access to dental care can make it difficult for some parents to keep up with routine appointments. Events like this help connect families to needed services while creating a positive experience for children,” said Dr. Deborah George, EVP/Chief Dental Officer at JTCHS. “Our staff and volunteers were excited to provide these services to children in our community and teach them about the importance of good oral health.”
During the event, children received free dental services such as exams, cleanings and sealants. After completing their dental visits, they also received optometry exams, providing families with access to additional preventive care in one setting.
The event also created a fun, family-friendly environment for children and their parents. After receiving services, children enjoyed activities including painting, face painting, a bounce house, treats and music from an on-site DJ. Each child also received a bag with oral hygiene items, including a toothbrush and other essentials to encourage healthy habits at home.
For more information about Jessie Trice Community Health System and its services, visit JTCHS.org.
The Jessie Trice Community Health System, Inc. is one of Miami-Dade County’s preeminent federally qualified community health care centers, governed by a remarkably dedicated Board of Directors (51% of which are users of the medical and dental services) and an incredibly talented, committed family of providers and staff. JTCHS knows and specializes in comprehensive health, offering a myriad of services to improve the health of the community. This includes: dentistry, family medicine, nutrition, HIV/AIDS, behavioral health, transportation, pharmacy, healthy start, obstetric & gynecological care, school-based health, community health promotions, health & wellness center, pediatrics, and ancillary services. For more information on the Jessie Trice Community Health System, call 305-637-6400 or visit jtchs.org.
Ryan R. Hawkins (center), president and CEO of Jessie Trice Community Health System, poses with volunteers and patients during the 2026 JTCHS Give Kids A Smile Day, an event where uninsured children received free dental and vision services. (Photo by Audrey LaPalme, Sonshine Communications).
Dr. Lashunda Collins, DDS, provides dental services to a young patient during Give Kids A Smile Day, hosted by Jessie Trice Community Health System in collaboration with the Miami-Dade County Dental Society. (Photo by Audrey LaPalme, Sonshine Communications).
From left, Dr. Lashunda Collins, DDS; Dr. Deborah George, DDS, executive vice president and chief dental officer; and Dr. Ashley E. Reid, DDS, of Jessie Trice Community Health System at Give Kids A Smile Day, recently held at the JTCHS Corporate Office Complex. (Photo by Audrey LaPalme, Sonshine Communications).
Jessie Trice Community Health System staff and volunteers pose during the annual Give Kids A Smile Day, recently held at the JTCHS Corporate Office Complex, where uninsured children received free dental and vision services. (Photo by Audrey LaPalme, Sonshine Communications).
A young patient poses with Jessie Trice Community Health System staff and volunteers during Give Kids A Smile Day, where uninsured children received free dental and vision services. (Photo by Audrey LaPalme, Sonshine Communications).
