FRUITLAND PARK – For the fifth consecutive year, Heritage Community Church will welcome the Florida Baptist Convention Mobile Dental Unit to provide free dental care for adults without health insurance. The initiative, held in partnership with Beyond the Walls Food Pantry, continues its mission to make essential dental services available to those in need.
The Mobile Dental Unit will be stationed at the church, located at 509 W. Berckman St., from August 4 through August 8. Services offered include dental cleanings, fillings, and tooth extractions. However, oral surgeries and denture-related procedures will not be provided.
The free care is available to uninsured adults aged 18 and older. To qualify, individuals must first attend a mandatory screening on Saturday, July 26, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Those seeking treatment should bring a current list of medications and be prepared to complete the screening process to secure an appointment during the clinic week.
The Florida Baptist Convention Mobile Dental Ministry Unit, in cooperation with the Florida Department of Health Volunteer Health Care Provider Program, is entirely staffed by volunteers. This includes everyone from the bus driver and dental coordinators to the dentists, dental assistants, and hygienists.
“The host church is responsible for recruiting the volunteer dental professionals,” explained Pastor Mike Smith of Heritage Community Church. He added that the Florida Baptist Convention supplies the dental bus, which is fully equipped with two operatories, X-ray equipment, and all necessary dental materials.
“This Mobile Dental Ministry is a way for our church and Beyond the Walls Food Pantry to demonstrate compassion and serve our neighbors through practical care,” Pastor Smith said. “We are incredibly thankful for the dedicated dental professionals who donate their time and expertise.”
Volunteering professionals may also benefit from the program. Dentists and hygienists who participate are eligible to receive up to eight hours of continuing education credit for their pro bono service.
Fred Griffin Jr., president of the West Leesburg Community Redevelopment Agency, praised the effort. “We love seeing our community come together to make dental care accessible to everyone,” he said. “We’re proud to help spread the word about this important service.”
