The University of Virginia Health Culpeper Medical Center recently announced that it will donate $8,333 to each of the six elementary schools in Culpeper County, totaling nearly $50,000, to strengthen children’s oral health education and care.
The funds will be used to provide oral care products and carry out related educational programs for lower grade students, aiming to cultivate healthy oral hygiene habits from an early age and prevent tooth decay and related health problems.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than half of children aged 6 to 8 have at least one deciduous tooth with tooth decay.
Although tooth decay is common, it is a preventable chronic disease. If not treated in time, it may cause pain, infection, and affect children’s eating, speaking and learning ability. Studies have shown that brushing with fluoride toothpaste every day is an effective way to prevent tooth decay.
“We are honored to be able to contribute to the oral health of children in our community,” said Donna Staton, chief operating officer of the University of Virginia Health Culpeper and Northern Virginia Medical Center. “With the support of the University of Virginia Community Health Foundation, this fund will be used to purchase necessities such as toothbrushes and toothpaste, and provide health guidance courses through cooperation with Culpeper County Public Schools to help students build a foundation for lifelong health.”
Dr. Tony S. Brads, superintendent of Culpeper County Public Schools, pointed out that oral health is essential for children’s development. “Dental health is not only about physical health, but also affects academic performance, self-confidence and quality of life.
This program encourages students to develop simple but critical hygiene habits such as brushing and flossing. We sincerely thank the University of Virginia Health Center for its support of the well-being of our students.”
The six elementary schools that received the funding are:
AG Richardson Elementary School
Emerald Hills Elementary School
Farmington Elementary School
Pearl Sample Elementary School
Sycamore Park Elementary School
Yowell Elementary School
Dr. Felicia Blow, Executive Director of the University of Virginia Community Health Foundation, also expressed her gratitude. “It is gratifying to be able to use this money directly to help children get oral care products.
This is a vivid example of the real impact of the community fund and our commitment to serving the local health care system and the health of residents.”