Free service helps fill dental hygiene need for low-income Vanier residents

For families and individuals who can not afford regular dental checkups, a new service offered in Vanier is here to help.

Karen Ergus, a registered dental hygienist will start volunteering her services to vulnerable and low-income individuals and families at the Vanier Community Service Centre once a month. Dental assessments and dental education will be available starting in June at the centre.

Ergus, vice-president of the Ottawa-Vanier Women’s Liberal Association, said the service is being offered in honour of Ottawa-Vanier MP Mauriel Belanger.

The Canadian Dental Charity Foundation and the Dental Charity Ball have partnered to offer the program for Vanier residents.

According to the Vanier Community Service Centre, the two partners were inspired by Belanger’s continued commitment to the Vanier neighbourhood, and chose to invest to better the well-being of its residents.

Michel Gervais, the service centre’s executive director, is pleased the dental service will help those who can not afford proper check-ups.

Along with Ergus’ dental hygienist services, the service centre will also offer dental education and prevention programs monthly.