Sinclair Community College Students Provide Critical Dental Care to Refugee Children Through Special Clinic

Sinclair Community College dental hygiene students gained valuable hands-on skills by providing dental care to 45 refugee children during a special clinic held on Monday, June 3, 2024. 

The Sinclair students provided teeth cleaning and basic dental check-ups for the children from several countries including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, and Colombia. The event was part of a partnership between Sinclair, Catholic Social Services of the Miami Valley (CCSMV), Ebenezer Healthcare Access, and the Montgomery County Educational Service Center (MCESC).

“Sinclair is proud to work with community partners to provide an experience that not only allows our students to apply their hands-on skills in a real-world setting but also embodies Sinclair’s commitment to giving back to the community,” said Dr. Bonita Kipling, Chair – Sinclair Community College Dental Health Sciences Program. “It's heartwarming to see our students making a tangible difference in the lives of these children, promoting oral health, and fostering a sense of community support and care."

Through a federal grant, the MCESC is working with community partners to connect refugees in the Dayton area with service organizations. 

"Our collaborative efforts focus on addressing essential needs and gaps in needs, such as cultural and financial education, and ensuring access to services. Ultimately, we want to do everything we can to help refugees thrive in their new community. By fostering strong partnerships, we aim to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all," added Diane Farrell, Project Coordinator – MCESC.

In 2023, CSSMV resettled 493 individuals into the Dayton area. CSSMV staff members and volunteers assist by setting up housing and necessities, enrolling children in school, finding employment, explaining transportation options, and providing resources for language classes, legal aid, and healthcare. 

“Through actions of faith, service, and charity, and with the generosity of our donors, our dedicated staff, and dozens of volunteers, we help these individuals build new lives and find hope. Our wonderful partnership with Sinclair Community College exemplifies this mission, as the students provide essential dental care to the children, ensuring their health and well-being as they integrate into our community," added Alyssa Jacobs, Refugee Resettlement Program Manager – CSSMV.

Sinclair’s Midmark Dental Health Clinic is located inside the Ned J. Sifferlen Health Sciences Center (Building 14) at the Dayton campus. During the 2023-2024 academic year, Sinclair dental hygiene students provided dental care to nearly 1,200 patients with ages ranging from 3 years old to 70. Learn more about Sinclair’s Dental Health Sciences Program, visit the website or email dental.sciences@sinclair.edu. 

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