Family First Dental in Rexburg, which officially opened in October 2025, is launching a community toy drive aimed at helping children in need while promoting access to dental care.
The initiative, called the 1,000 Smiles Project, invites community members to donate new, unwrapped toys at the clinic through Dec. 18. Each donated toy counts as one entry into a giveaway, with five winners set to receive free dental care for an entire year.
Dr. William Stout, the lead dentist at Family First Dental, said the idea came unexpectedly but quickly became a core part of the clinic’s mission.
“I was woken up in the middle of the night with the idea that if I wanted to create a meaningful culture, this is how I would do it,” Stout said. “That night, the 1,000 Smiles Project was born.”
Stout previously introduced the project in the Tri-Cities area of Washington. This year marks the first time it has been held in Rexburg.
According to Stout, the project benefits both recipients and participants, especially families who have postponed dental care due to financial constraints.
“For families who really need dental work but can’t afford it, this can be a huge blessing,” he said. “It makes a real difference.”
Beyond dental care, the toy donations play a critical role during the holiday season. Stout said many recipient families struggle to meet basic needs.
“Some of these families can’t afford food, let alone Christmas gifts,” he said. “Being able to see the smiles on the children’s faces is incredibly special.”
The clinic emphasized that donations are welcome from the entire community, not just existing patients.
“This is an opportunity to give back, support families in need, and do good in our community,” Stout said.
Family First Dental is located on East Moody Road near Walmart.
