MANHATTAN, Kan. (KSNT) — The Kansas Mission of Mercy (KMOM) held its 25th annual free dental clinic in Manhattan, providing critical dental care to Kansans who cannot afford treatment.
The two-day clinic took place at the Kansas Army National Guard Armory, where local dentists and volunteers offered services including cleanings, fillings, extractions and dental hygiene education. More than 1,000 volunteers staffed the event, which was equipped with about 100 dental chairs.
Organizers estimate the clinic will cost about $17,000 to operate, while delivering nearly $1 million worth of donated dental care.
“What I love about it is we’re getting people out of pain and helping them smile again,” said Jill Ellner, chair of the local KMOM planning committee. “It’s a huge community event where the community takes care of the community.”
Volunteers, many of whom donate long hours, are essential to the clinic’s success. Britany Rule, who has volunteered for 11 years, said some dentists work straight through lunch to treat as many patients as possible.
“They put in a lot of hours,” Rule said. “Without them, this wouldn’t be able to happen.”
Since 2023, the Kansas Mission of Mercy has provided free dental care to more than 33,500 patients across the state.