MOMOM: A Mission of Mercy Comes to Columbia
Every so often, an event comes along that truly embodies the spirit of community and compassion. MOMOM, which stands for Missouri Mission of Mercy, is precisely that event.
It’s a large-scale, two-day dental clinic that provides free, urgent dental care to thousands of Missouri adults and children who otherwise lack access to treatment. For many patients, this isn’t just about a cleaning or a filling; it’s about relief from chronic pain, restoring their ability to eat and smile confidently, and a life-changing experience.
The first MOMOM was held in Springfield in 2011, and its profound success led to events in Cape Girardeau and St. Louis. In 2015, we were incredibly proud to bring this vital mission to our community in Columbia on July 31st and August 1st at the Hearnes Center on the University of Missouri campus.
Beyond Dentistry: Serving Our Community
For Dr. Foote, dentistry has always been about more than just caring for patients within our four walls; it’s about serving the broader community.
As a board member of the Missouri Dental Association Foundation, he didn’t just volunteer his clinical skills for the Columbia MOMOM event; he was deeply involved in the months of planning and organization leading up to it. Dr. Foote wholeheartedly embraced the responsibility of orchestrating an event of this magnitude, driven by a shared belief that everyone deserves access to quality dental care, regardless of their circumstances.
Over those two days, alongside hundreds of fellow volunteers, including dentists, hygienists, assistants, and countless community members, Dr. Foote worked on the front lines. The energy at the Hearnes Center was electric, a potent mix of focused determination and profound gratitude. The team provided essential services like fillings, extractions, and cleanings, offering not just treatment, but hope and dignity to every person in the chair.
At The Heart Of MOMOM: Volunteers
An event like MOMOM runs entirely on the power of volunteerism. It requires a group of dedicated people, dental professionals, and general community volunteers to handle everything from patient registration and guiding guests to sterilizing instruments and assisting chairside. Every role is crucial to creating a smooth, welcoming, and efficient experience for the patients who bravely wait in line for care.
The success of MOMOM in Colombia was a testament to our city’s generosity and a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we come together for a common cause. While that specific event has passed, MOMOM’s mission continues to travel across the state, and the need for volunteers and support is ongoing.
If you want to learn more about this incredible organization or how you can help at a future event, we encourage you to visit the official website at www.momom.org. Your time and compassion can truly help change a life.
FAQs
What is MOMOM?
MOMOM (Missouri Mission of Mercy) is a large-scale, two-day dental clinic providing free, urgent dental care to adults and children without access to treatment.
Who can receive treatment at MOMOM?
MOMOM is designed for any Missouri adult or child needing urgent dental care who cannot otherwise afford or access it. Services are provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
What kind of dental services does MOMOM provide?
The clinic offers essential services to relieve pain and restore function, including fillings, tooth extractions, and professional cleanings.
How does MOMOM operate?
MOMOM is entirely volunteer-driven. It relies on donated time from dentists, hygienists, dental assistants, and general community volunteers to run all aspects of the clinic.
How can I help with a future MOMOM event?
You can make a difference by volunteering your time or support. To learn how to get involved in upcoming clinics, visit the official website at www.momom.org.