Maya Severson, Workforce Development Program Manager

This weekend, approximately 800 people from across Connecticut attended Connecticut Mission of Mercy, often referred to as CTMOM. The two day clinic provides free dental care to the underserved and uninsured in Connecticut. The dental services provided at CTMOM include cleanings, fluoride treatments, sealants, x-rays, fillings, root canal treatments, and extractions. CTMOM has been held annually at a different location throughout the state since 2008. This year, CTMOM took place at Windham Middle School in Willimantic, CT.

Service to Improve Community Health (STICH) AmeriCorps members from health centers across the state joined hundreds of other dedicated volunteers to set up for CTMOM on Friday, April 12. The STICH members completed a variety of tasks throughout the day including constructing patient chairs and workstations, assembling hygiene kits, and distributing and unpacking dental supplies. (Check out our photos here!) Additionally, STICH members spoke directly with patients during clinic hours on Saturday and Sunday, sharing information about locations and services offered at community health centers in the state of Connecticut. The goal is for everyone who attends CTMOM to choose a dental home for regular dental care, which can be a local community health center!

CTMOM is often a highlight of service for STICH members and is just one example of the many ways STICH members give back to the community throughout the service term. If you or someone you know is interested in giving back to the community by participating in the STICH program, get in touch!