Post written by Courtney Kohler, Missouri CAN Program Director 

A two generation approach to alleviating poverty involves serving both the parents and children within a family holistically.  This approach is said to have the greatest impact in deterring generational poverty.  Health is one area where this is especially true – healthy parents, healthy children.  Jefferson Franklin Community Action Corporation (JFCAC) takes this approach in the partnership they have with Community Treatment, Inc (COMTREA).  Dental services are provided for the whole family – from the pregnant mother to the child.  Read on for JFCAC’s partnership testimony:

The COMTREA Dental staff greatly impacted the lives of the families we work with in Jefferson County.  The dental hygienist visits the WIC clinic twice a week and sees 12-18 pregnant moms a day.  They also provide services to our Employment Support clients so that they can maintain employment goals.

Dr. Suter worked with JFCAC on the Dental Coalition during ARRA while he was still away at college.  Once he graduated he returned to Jefferson County to work at COMTREA after they became a FQHC. He has expanded dental services for families throughout the county.

They donate their time at the WIC clinics and Head Start Centers during the school year.  Recently, they provided CSBG with five $1,200 vouchers so that families seeking employment will have the opportunity to have their dental needs met & increase their chance for success.

COMTREA’s Dental Staff have been an asset to Jefferson County – especially WIC parents and Head Start Families.  They are invested in the community and are champions for oral health & advocates for our families.

Cheers to all the partnerships highlighted this month!  We know there are many more out there.  This type of collaboration deepens impact and catalyzes community action. #HealthAdvocacyMonth #MissouriCAN