C.H.A.N.C.E Dental Program brings hope and dental care to those in need
October 24, 2023
For those struggling with issues like addiction and homelessness, dental care (like many other services) can be difficult to come by, but in downtown Albany the Communities Helping All Negotiate Change Effectively (C.H.A.N.C.E) Dental Program stands out as a source of hope. In Coordination with Community Health Centers (CHCs) of Benton and Linn Counties and other partners the C.H.A.N.C.E Dental Program is changing the story for those who don’t have dental insurance or need help navigating access to dental care. They’re providing important dental care services. Leading the way are Vanessa Rabine, the CHC’s Outreach Dental Program Coordinator, and Molly Perino, the Program Director, with C.H.A.N.C.E Director Emma Dean.
The C.H.A.N.C.E program works with people who are recovering from mental health and substance abuse problems. They help with the physical, mental, and behavioral aspects of health. They also promote individual and group programs that boost health and strength.
“We aim to increase permanent housing, jobs, education, and other necessary support networks. We want to reduce the things that make it hard for people to fit in socially and lessen the stigma linked to mental health and addiction recovery,” said Dean.
For a while now, Perino said C.H.A.N.C.E has had a dream of providing dental care to people who need it. The CHC’s dental outreach program started in Benton County and East Linn County, and their mission has grown into a symbol of compassion. They offer a lifeline to adults who used to have very few choices, Perino explained.
The C.H.A.N.C.E Dental Program takes dental care to people in need by creating a space that’s easy to get to and comfortable. The program started helping people in downtown Albany in June 2023 thanks to a generous grant from Samaritan Health Services. The grant made it possible for adults who’ve been wanting dental care for a long time to finally get it, Rabine said. Interdent, the parent company of Capitol Dental, also contributed crucial dental equipment items to help launch the clinic opening.
“The grant acted like a bridge. It connected people who couldn’t get proper dental care with a group of professionals who were really determined to provide that care,” added Rabine.
The C.H.A.N.C.E Dental Program is more than just a dental service. It’s a sign of compassion and community support helping those having a difficult time getting dental care to show off a strong, healthy smile.
Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact Cory Grogan at 541-745-4468 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.