by Hilary Canty

Executive Director, Orcas Island Community Foundation

I am delighted to report that we are getting much closer to restarting a Dental Clinic providing free care on Orcas Island.

The San Juan County Health Department has received grant funding to support care and is contracting with Dr. Jessica Dubek, the founder of DentALL, a practice committed to expanding access to dental care for all.

Dr. Dubek will be working with Dr. Jack Ehlen, an Orcas resident and former volunteer with the MTI Dental Clinics, to provide four clinic days per month for island residents. There will also be hygienists working at these clinics.

This program is a fantastic community collaboration. The Orcas Community Church has graciously offered to host the clinics and the Orcas Community Resource Center will continue to provide scheduling support. Marsha Waunch will remain the volunteer coordinator and the Mercy Flight team is committed to flying Dr. Dubek and team to and from Bellingham for each clinic. While the county is providing some funding, generous donors have provided funds through the Orcas Island Community Foundation so that needed equipment and supplies can be purchased and services can be expanded as needed. The first scheduled clinic is May 10 and 11. Contact Josh Culp at OCRC, 360-376-3184 to make an appointment.

We are fortunate to live in a community that cares.