Degen Foundation awards grants to three nonprofits
by January 25, 2024 10:50 am 778 views
The Fort Smith-based Degen Foundation awarded three grants totaling $44,320 to three Fort Smith nonprofit organizations in December.
The Community Dental Clinic, a program of the Crawford-Sebastian Community Development Council, received a $20,000 grant for the purchase of two new dental chairs to its chairs that are over 25 years old. The clinic’s volunteer dentists see up to 20 patients a session, which can last three to four hours at a time.
“Operative chairs are critical to the care of those with extreme dental needs,” a news release from the Degan Foundation said.
The Community Dental Clinic serves low-income residents of Sebastian and Crawford counties who are in need of dental treatment and cannot afford dental care. Clients are treated by volunteer dentists who are licensed and experienced professionals. Dental hygiene is provided in collaboration with the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith senior dental hygiene students.
The Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE) received a grant for $16,520 to purchase specialized equipment for patient evaluation and examination, including ultrasound technology and digital diagnostic tools to enhance education and training of students.
“The students of (Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine) will be able to provide community outreach to the area in addition to increasing technology integration,” the news release said.
The Community Services Clearinghouse received a $7,800 grant to fund its “Fresh Food to Fight Cancer” project.
The money will provide six months’ worth, up to $300 a week, of fresh fruit and vegetables for clients of The Donald Reynolds Cancer Support House who are undergoing cancer treatment.
“Often, cancer patients deal with financial, emotional, and physical hardships and having access to fresh food is essential for their wellbeing,” the news release said.
The Degen Foundation provides healthcare funds, both through grants and special services, to promote health and education with the primary emphasis in assisting the needs of the uninsured and underserved population in a seven-county area.