HAGERSTOWN, Md. — A grant from United Way of Washington County is helping restore access to dental care for hundreds of local students after a mechanical issue sidelined a mobile clinic.
Family Healthcare of Hagerstown recently received a $2,000 Live United Urgent Needs Grant to repair a generator on its Healthy Smiles in Motion mobile dental unit. The malfunction temporarily halted services provided through the clinic, which visits schools across Washington County.
The mobile program delivers preventive and restorative dental care directly to students, many of whom face barriers such as transportation challenges, cost or limited access to providers. Without the service, some children risk delays in routine care that can affect both their health and school attendance.
United Way officials said the grant was awarded to address an immediate need and help the program return to operation as quickly as possible. The funding offset repair costs and allowed the unit to resume visits, ensuring students continue receiving care without prolonged interruption.
Family Healthcare of Hagerstown operates the program with a focus on improving oral health outcomes for children. Providers offer cleanings, exams, sealants and other treatments in a school-based setting, reducing the need for families to arrange off-site appointments.
Community leaders noted that untreated oral health issues can contribute to missed school days and long-term health concerns.
With the generator repaired, the Healthy Smiles in Motion unit is back on the road, continuing to provide dental services to students throughout Washington County.
