Well Child Center hosts virtual fundraiser to support pediatric dental clinic

The Well Child Center pediatric dental clinic has continued to serve low-income children-100% fall below 133% of the poverty level (a gross monthly income below $2,937 for a family of four)-throughout the pandemic. To continue providing much needed dental services to children in the community, Well Child Center needs additional support.

The center is hosting a virtual fundraiser between now and Nov. 1 so it may continue to serve all children in the pediatric dental clinic regardless of their parent's insurance status and financial limitations.

Prior to COVID-19, the Well Child Center annually provided approximately 5,500 appointments to almost 3,000 children in the pediatric dental clinic. During the pandemic, the center has had to adjust its health and safety protocols and - as a result - has served far fewer children.

"The center's pediatric dental clinic anticipates providing oral health care for approximately 1,900," said executive director Michelle Esquivel. "These numbers are significantly lower than pre-pandemic levels and we are in need additional financial support so we can continue providing comprehensive oral healthcare and scale-up services to pre-COVID levels."

All funds raised as part of the virtual fundraiser will directly support the purchase of much needed equipment and supplies for the pediatric dental clinic.

"We are determined to remain a welcoming and safe Dental Home for all of Kane County's most vulnerable residents and conduct targeted outreach to a broad range of community members to achieve this goal," stated Mark Ainley, Well Child Center board of directors' chairman.

Did you know that one single donation of $150 can provide dental treatment for one child for one year? Here are more ways to help:

• $25 provides a dental exam for one child;

• $50 provides a cleaning and fluoride treatment for one child;

• $75 provides a one cavity filling;

• $75 provides a dental X-ray for one child.

"The WCC is grateful for the generous support from local foundations and donations from compassionate community members," noted Esquivel .

Donations for the virtual fundraiser can be made online via PayPal or via check, mailed to Well Child Center, 620 Wing St., Elgin, IL 60123.

For nearly 50 years, the Well Child Center has been a leader in the provision of health and social services for the most vulnerable families and uninsured, at-risk children in the Elgin community and throughout Kane County. Throughout the pandemic, the Well Child Center (WCC) has remained committed to its mission - to grow healthy families. The center has overcome various challenges to keep its nonprofit doors open, all while maintaining the highest level of safety precautions to keep patients and employees healthy.

For more information, visit wellchildcenter.org or contact Melinda Scheibe, Well Child Center at mscheibe@wellchildcenter.org.

Follow www.facebook.com/wellchildcenter, twitter.com/WellChildCenter or www.instagram.com/well_child_center/.