The last week of Great Shape! Inc.’s 1000 Smiles wrapped up in Negril on Friday, November 20th. Nearly 200 volunteers served approximately 4,500 Jamaicans with free dental care over three sessions in Ocho Rios, Montego Bay and Negril. The 1000 Smiles Educational Team served over 15,000 children in those six weeks.
1000 Smiles leaders met with the Jamaican Ministry of Health Chief Dental Officer Dr. Mckenzie and Western Regional Health Authority Dr. Konstantinov. The collaborative partnership between Great Shape! and the Jamaican Ministry of Health was praised and nurtured. Great Shape! even learned a few new facts:
-9.5% of all children in Jamaica are currently served by public health dental care
-1.0% of adults in Jamaica are currently served by public health dental care
-In rural Jamaica, there is one dentist for every 100,000 people!
Nearly 4,500 Jamaican teeth wouldn’t be clean and healthy without the Jamaican Ministry of Health, Sandals Resorts International and 1000 Smiles volunteers. Great Shape! is so thankful for such amazing support and love!