Four more people will receive a second chance at life through our Changing Smiles, Changing Lives Program because of the generosity of Thunderbirds Charities. The grant will mean a change in the trajectory of their lives and of those all around them forever. “Smiles looked at me and only saw the good in me. My life is totally different today,“ says Brittany.
It is nearly impossible to develop in our society with very damaged teeth hampering a person’s opportunities. While an employer may try to look past damaged teeth to see the real person, often teeth are the one obstacle to employment that cannot be overcome. The rejection and despair caused by being unable to support yourself and your family is immense. The oral health care intervention made possible by the Thunderbirds helps to address community related health issues, provide a pathway to employment, and reduce community costs associated with the lack of healthcare, mental health care and unemployment. Program participants are reuniting with families, buying homes, attending school, and building careers. Homelessness, poverty, and domestic violence are no longer part of their stories.
Smiles and Beyond is proud to be part of their new stories. “I had lost everything, was living on the streets of Phoenix and abusing alcohol and drugs. All I really, wanted and desired was that just one day my family would be restored. Smiles was transformative for me,” says Tommy.
This grant is part of the Spring 2021 cycle. View a list of all Recent Grantees.