MIAMI — For the first time since 2008, residents of Opa-Locka, Florida, can access comprehensive dental care at no cost. Services range from routine cleanings and x-rays to root canals and oral cancer screenings.
The UHI CommunityCare Clinic, a nonprofit health provider founded and run by South Florida’s Muslim community, launched the initiative in partnership with Caring for Miami, a program of Christ Fellowship Church. The collaboration brings mobile dental care to uninsured and low-income patients every Thursday.
Ashley Giritli, CEO of Caring for Miami, emphasized the program’s mission. “We want to go into communities, meet their needs, provide food, and show them that God cares,” she said. The dental program complements other mobile services, including a food pantry that has previously visited UHI.
On opening day, patients lined up outside the mobile clinic. Sahar Manour, who traveled from Pembroke Pines, received x-rays and a deep cleaning in a single visit. “It’s very helpful. Dental care is expensive, and I was always discouraged to go,” she said.
Dr. Kate Semidey, a pediatrician at UHI, highlighted the broader importance of oral health. “Dental care is critical for overall health,” she said, noting connections between oral hygiene and conditions such as cardiovascular disease and dementia. “Having this service regularly available for our patients is huge.”
Representatives from Jackson Health System and Baptist Health Systems praised the clinic’s role in reducing unnecessary emergency room visits, which can cost patients hundreds of dollars per night. Joyce Granada, Jackson Health’s director of population health, explained that community clinics help patients maintain ongoing care relationships, preventing hospital reliance.
Opa-Locka faces high poverty rates and limited access to healthy food, making local health resources essential. Javier Gutierrez of Jackson Health called UHI “a great resource for the community” and commended its work.
Since moving from Miami Gardens last year, UHI has partnered with Florida International University’s medical school to provide student doctors and faculty. The clinic offers a wide range of services, including eye exams and children’s vaccines, free for those without insurance. Last year, it served more than 5,800 patients, and demand continues to grow.
Khalid Mirza, president of UHI’s board, said the addition of permanent dental services is “a blessing” for the community. The partnership exemplifies interfaith collaboration, with both Muslim and Christian groups working together to improve public health.
Services are available to everyone, regardless of faith, with voluntary prayer offered for those who request it. UHI CommunityCare Clinic is located at 870 Fisherman St., Opa-Locka.