The Florida Veterans Foundation has announced the launch of its statewide Veterans Dental Program aimed at enhancing access to essential dental care for eligible Veterans across Florida. The program is designed to provide no-cost services through a network of selected 501c3 nonprofit organizations. These services will include routine exams, cleanings, fillings, and other necessary dental procedures tailored for Veterans.
Dr. Pia S. Woodley, Chair of the Florida Veterans Foundation, stated, “We are honored to lead this initiative, which will directly impact the lives of many Veterans across Florida. Our goal is to ensure that every eligible Veteran has access to the dental care they need, improving their quality of life and overall health.”
The initiative was made possible through 2023 legislation (CS/HB 635-2023), sponsored by Senator Danny Burgess and Representative Patt Maney, with a $1 million allocation from the Florida Legislature in 2024. Nonprofit Veterans organizations will administer the program, providing care to Florida Veterans based on criteria such as income level and service status.
“Florida is a leader in being the most Veteran-friendly state in our country, and our goal is to continue addressing ways to improve their quality of life,” emphasized Senator Danny Burgess. He further added that the program aims to provide enhanced services to Veterans within their local communities.
Representative Patt Maney highlighted a critical challenge the program addresses: “Just 15% of Veterans are eligible for dental services through the federal VA. I was honored to sponsor the legislation that created this vital program, which will help meet a critical need beyond the local resources that are available to our state’s Veterans.”
James S. Hartsell, Executive Director of the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs, commented on the state’s efforts: “It’s no secret that good dental care is vital for both your physical and mental well-being. Thanks to Gov. Ron DeSantis, bill sponsors Sen. Danny Burgess and Rep. Patt Maney, and our legislature, this state-led initiative is another reason Florida remains the most Veteran friendly, appreciated and sought after state in the Nation.”
For statewide Veteran-centric organizations, opportunities to participate in the Veterans Dental Program and apply for a grant are available online. The FVF intends to actively collaborate with veteran service organizations and community partners to promote and educate Veterans about the program.
Paul Kimbel, FVF Lead Dental Analyst, concluded, “This program is a lifeline designed to reach those veterans in desperate need of dental care, offering them hope and a path to a better quality of life. We look forward to working together with our network of nonprofits to make a positive impact and ensure Florida’s veterans receive the vital care they so rightly deserve.”
