By Sandy Kemper, R.D.H. - B.S. | Founder & Foundation Management
Oh Joy! Celebrate 25 Years of Giving Dental Care!
As our 25th anniversary approaches, we reflect on the remarkable impact achieved together. With your continued support, the future will be even brighter for thousands of children and their communities.
Despite Bolivia's current economic challenges, including high inflation, our commitment to this mission is steadfast and strong. Now more than ever, those in need depend on us, and Smiles Forever refuses to let them down. We continue as a beacon of hope, providing access to essential dental care that would otherwise be out of reach for these children.
2024 has been a year of challenges and opportunities. Thanks to your unwavering support, we have overcome obstacles and taken another step toward a brighter future for those who need it most. Smiles Forever has transformed the lives of more than 67,000 individuals by providing free, high-quality dental care.
This year we expanded our reach to new centers and shelters: Hogar La Providencia: A refuge for children of low-income women, now receives much-needed dental services. Also served: Centro Fenix: A shelter focused on reintegrating children affected by abandonment and violence & Casa San Jose: A home for over 45 children in the outskirts of Cochabamba.
In the Marquina community, we concluded the pilot phase of our SDF - GIC application program with inspiring results: 327 children treated, 15,985 SDF applications with an 80.8% success rate on 3,353 cavities, as well as 166 GIC fillings and 337 dental extractons. However, over 1,500 children in Marquina still need dental care. In 2025 our focus will shift to preventive services to reduce the need for restorative treatments.
During this season of peace and gratitude, Smiles Forever extends our heartfelt thanks to each of you. May your holidays and the New Year be filled with joy, blessings, and love.
Thank you for being part of this dream that we make a reality together.
With gratitude, Sandy
By Nancy Clark & Amanda (Beba) Penaranda-Aranibar | Project Leader & Bolivian Clinic Staff Member
By Connie de Jong, special guest contributor | Project Leader for Refugio Rafael
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