SCHOFIELD, Wis. (WSAW) — A free two-day dental clinic will open its doors in Schofield this weekend, aiming to provide essential care for people who lack access to regular dental services.
The 11th Mission of Mercy event will take place Friday and Saturday at the DC Everest Middle School gymnasium. Doors open at 5:30 a.m. each day. Organizers expect around 450 patients to receive treatment and more than 700 volunteers — including dentists, hygienists, assistants, dental students, and community members — to take part.
Hosted by the Wisconsin Dental Association (WDA) and the WDA Foundation, Mission of Mercy sets up a temporary dental clinic in a different part of Wisconsin every other year. The goal is to reach people with limited financial resources or those unable to access dental care through traditional means.
Jeremy Hoffman, DDS, a local dentist from Dental Vision in Schofield, emphasized the importance of the event. “Services include extractions, fillings, cleanings, and some limited partial dentures,” he said. “It’s really about helping people get out of pain and supporting the underserved.”
Dr. Hoffman also highlighted a broader purpose: raising awareness about challenges in accessing oral healthcare. “This is a profession where we care about the public,” he said. “But it’s also to draw attention to the need across the community and the state.”
All services at the clinic are free. No identification, Social Security number, or insurance information is required. Spanish and Hmong interpreters will be on site to assist patients.
The event is made possible by donations, which cover equipment, supplies, and snacks for volunteers.