The ADA Foundation has introduced a new grant program to help local dentists recover from natural disasters. State dental associations and their affiliated foundations can apply for funding of up to $25,000, depending on the disaster’s severity, the number of dentists affected, and available funds.
Rita Cammarata, D.D.S., chair of the ADA Foundation, said the program aims to assist dentists “in the immediate aftermath of a disaster,” enabling them to return to practice quickly.
On average, 164 disasters are declared annually in the U.S., according to USAFacts. States have 60 days from a disaster declaration to apply. Approved funds must be distributed to individual dentists in line with IRS disaster relief guidelines.
The grants are intended for urgent personal needs, including food, water, clothing, medication, emergency shelter, transportation, and toiletries. They cannot be used for practice-related expenses, lost income, or long-term recovery, such as rebuilding homes or replacing household items.
States receiving grants are required to report back to the ADA Foundation on how the funds are used.