The fourth Missouri Mission of Mercy (MOMOM), held in Columbia on July 31st and August 1st, 2015, was a profound testament to the power of community, compassion, and collective action. The numbers are staggering, but they only tell part of the story. The real success was measured in the relief of pain, restoration of confidence, and renewal of hope for thousands of our neighbors.
This incredible event provided free dental care to anyone in need. Its success was only possible because of outpouring support from every corner of our community. From the dental professionals who donated their skills to the volunteers who guided patients and the businesses that provided supplies, central Missouri came together unforgettably.
The Impact, By the Numbers
The statistics from the Missouri Dental Association are a powerful snapshot of what was accomplished over those two days at the Hearnes Center:
- $1,011,621 in Free Care Donated: This astounding figure represents life-changing dentistry provided at no cost, lifting a tremendous financial burden from families and individuals.
- 1,723 Patients Served: Each number represents a person who bravely sought care, many of whom had been living with dental pain for years.
- A Clinic in Action:
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- 910 Fillings restored teeth from decay.
- 2,286 Extractions relieved patients from painful and infected teeth.
- 1,334 Hygiene Visits provided cleanings and crucial education on oral health, empowering patients to take control of their well-being.
- 1,129 Volunteers: This was the heart of the operation. A small army of 211 dentists, 81 hygienists, and 837 incredible community members, assistants, students, translators, and non-medical volunteers donated their time and energy to ensure everything ran smoothly.
Carrying the Mission Forward
The spirit of MOMOM doesn’t end when the last chair is packed away. The 2015 event raised incredible awareness, generating over 1.7 million media impressions, which helps continue the conversation about oral health access. The mission moved next to Independence, MO, in 2016. The need is great, but as Columbia proved, so is our capacity for generosity.
Thank you to everyone who volunteered, donated, or helped spread the word. You were part of something truly special. If you missed this one but feel called to help at a future event, we would love to tell you more about how to get involved. Feel the urge to make a difference? Contact our office to learn more about MOMOM and how you can be part of the next wave of smiles.
FAQs
1. What is the Missouri Mission of Mercy (MOMOM)?
The Missouri Mission of Mercy (MOMOM) is a large-scale, free dental clinic organized by the Missouri Dental Association. For two days, volunteer dental professionals and community members provide essential dental care, including fillings, extractions, and cleanings, at no cost to patients in need.
2. Who can receive treatment at MOMOM?
MOMOM is open to anyone in need of dental care. Patients are seen on a first-come, first-served basis. The event is designed to help children and adults who face barriers to accessing regular dental care, offering them relief from pain and infection.
3. How can I volunteer for a future MOMOM event?
They welcome volunteers from all backgrounds! While they always need licensed dental professionals (dentists, hygienists, assistants), they also rely heavily on non-medical volunteers for roles like patient registration, guiding patients, translation, and setup/breakdown. You can contact their office to be added to their volunteer interest list for future events.
4. What kind of services does MOMOM provide?
MOMOM focuses on addressing the most critical dental needs. The primary services offered include:
- Fillings: To restore teeth damaged by decay.
- Extractions: To remove painful or infected teeth.
- Hygiene Visits: Including cleanings and oral health education.
5. How is MOMOM able to provide free care?
MOMOM is made possible through the collective power of volunteers and community donations. The event runs on the donated time and skills of hundreds of dentists, hygienists, and general volunteers, combined with financial and in-kind support from local businesses and organizations. The millions of dollars in care provided are entirely donated.