Two nonprofit organizations, Platoon 22 and Mission of Mercy, are partnering to bring free dental care directly to veterans through a new mobile dental clinic initiative launching this summer.
Starting July 18, Mission of Mercy’s advanced mobile dental unit will make regular monthly visits to the Veteran Services Center (VSC) on Monocacy Boulevard. The goal is to deliver essential dental services—such as cleanings, fillings, and extractions—to veterans who lack access to affordable dental care.
“We’re serving those who fall through the cracks of the healthcare system,” said Jennifer White, Executive Director of Mission of Mercy. “These veterans often qualify for care but can’t afford deductibles, medications, tests, or co-pays.”
While many veterans are eligible for healthcare through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), dental coverage outside of service-connected injuries typically requires additional insurance or out-of-pocket expenses.
“A lot of the veterans we’ve seen lately have VA coverage but no secondary insurance,” said Niki Falzone, Executive Director of Platoon 22. “This clinic allows them to get care without paying out of pocket, which is huge.”
High-Tech Clinic on Wheels
The mobile dental clinic operates out of a custom-built, 42-foot-long recreational vehicle. Inside, it’s equipped with three dental chairs, sterilization equipment, and a fully functional operating space. The vehicle, which cost $450,000, has been in service since December 2018.
Falzone noted that many veterans are skipping basic preventive care like cleanings because they can’t afford it. “That’s causing more serious problems down the line,” she said.
White emphasized the importance of convenience. “We go to them,” she said. “If they already visit the VSC, they’ll feel comfortable getting care right there.”
The demand for services is high. All available appointment slots for the launch date have already been filled.
Veterans Grateful for the Support
Dennis Kimble, a 75-year-old veteran who visits the VSC regularly, said he’s eager to benefit from the new dental services. “I’m hoping it’ll help with my dental issues and save me some money,” he said.
Kimble, who lives in Howard County, has been using the VSC as a central spot between home and his doctors in Frederick since August 2024.
“Platoon 22 is a great place to relax,” he said. “The services are amazing. You can hang out, take a shower, or even do your laundry there.”
Platoon 22 focuses on supporting veterans and preventing veteran suicide. In 2024, the organization served 1,646 veterans and delivered nearly 3,800 services. These include PTSD therapy, yoga, acupuncture, and weekly community breakfasts.
“There are a number of things I use there that are very helpful,” Kimble added.
Volunteers Needed to Expand Services
To continue running the dental clinic successfully, the two nonprofits are currently seeking additional help. They are looking for two licensed dentists and one dental hygienist to volunteer one Friday per month, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Mission of Mercy also provides broader health services to uninsured and underinsured residents in both Maryland and Pennsylvania. The organization runs two mobile clinics that travel to Frederick, Taneytown, Reisterstown, Brunswick, Gettysburg, and Harrisburg.
Before acquiring the specialized dental RV, the group delivered care using only a folding chair and portable equipment inside its medical RV.
To operate efficiently, Mission of Mercy partners with local churches, which offer large spaces free of charge during the week. Each clinic relies on a dedicated team of volunteers, including doctors, nurses, dentists, interpreters, and administrative staff.