The Beacon Journal Charity Fund helps as many as 50 teens a year get dental treatment from local orthodontists who accept reduced fees for their work. The agency also funded dental hygiene classes for 6,104 third-graders last year, providing them with toothbrushes, dental floss and tablets that show the kids whether their personal dental hygiene is working or not.

The fund is set up to make orthodontic services available to teens 13 to 18 from working-poor families who reside in the five-county circulation area of the Akron Beacon Journal. Their families don't earn enough to pay for treatment, but earn too much to be eligible for government aid. About 90 percent of referrals come through the Summit County Health Department.

Provides assistance with non-routine dental care (primarily orthodontic treatment for underprivileged children age 18 and younger. The program does not assist with contact lenses. Does not provide emergency treatment and does not pay existing medical or hospital bills. All expenses must be pre approved.

Call the office for more information. Applications may be obtained at the Summit County Public Health, Akron Public Schools Health & Social Services Referral Center, school nurses or accredited social services agency. All services must be approved prior to the actual treatment. All requests are reviewed and subject to approval by the Board of Trustees.

Fees:Free
Eligibility:Serves Summit County residents age 18 and under.
Hours:Same as office hours.
Documents required:Must complete an application.
Services:Dental Care Expense Assistance for Youth
Site hours:Monday - Friday: 8:00am to 5:00pm

This dental assistance location provided is subject to change. We work to maintain an accurate list, but we urge you to call the location directly for further information as may have changed since this posting was created.