The medical profession has donated hundreds of thousands of dollars in services to our clients over the past 19 years.

Many of our clients used methamphetamines, a drug that devastates a chronic user's teeth. So, when these users begin their recovery, they face not only recovery issues but also the challenge of getting their teeth fixed. In many cases their teeth are rotten and cannot be salvaged. The solution is a set of dentures. Because 99% of them have no money or insurance their challenge is to find dental care.

One dentist has donated over $100,000 in services to our clients since 2004. More than twenty others have contributed several hundred thousand dollars in services. One of our unspoken agreements with them is to give them anonymity as they can't respond to all of the requests for help that publicity might generate. Many say the real reward for them is the improvements in the client's appearance and dental health.

Other professionals also help. Eye care providers have donated countless examinations and prescription lenses. This help has come from private practitioners, as well as national chains.

Our policy for referring clients is based upon need. If they are in pain we try to get them to a dentist right away. If they wear prescription lenses and have lost their glasses we refer them as soon as possible.

Referrals for dental work beyond extractions or pain relief are based upon a client's commitment to sobriety. Those receiving more extensive dental work have usually been in our program for at least 90 days. Our staff waits at least that long before making a referral because dentists like to help those who are serious about rebuilding their lives.

TLC has one staff member who coordinates donations. Probably 10% of his time is spent on seeking medical donations and coordinating appointments. Senior staff members approve requests for help based upon a client's commitment to sobriety.

In a world where news is often negative or sensational the unpublicized donations of the medical professionals in our communities sometimes go unnoticed.

We are very grateful for the help.