HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Almost two weeks ago, Hawaii's only no-cost dental clinic was in danger of closing its doors for good due to financial reasons.
For over two decades, the Aloha Medical Mission has provided dental care at no cost for those who cannot pay.
In late May, board members revealed that the clinic has until June or possibly July due to the lack of funding for the past two years.
Shortly after KHON2 aired the story in late May, the clinic received a $130,000 donation from the Abigail Kawananakoa Trust.
Another $50,000 donation was made by a local psychiatrist, giving the clinic the funds it needed to stay open.
The clinic is also applying to be a Medicare provider which will help the clinic to be sustainable.
Six paid staff members and seven volunteer dentists treat about 300 patients monthly in Kalihi and offer prevention education at the schools.
“Changing people’s lives. That’s why we’re here. Giving them hope, pain-free hope,” said Mei-Ling Isaacs, Executive Director of Aloha Medical Mission Dental Clinic.
For more information about the free dental clinic, visit Aloha Medical Mission's website.