Dr. Lyndal Holmes, a volunteer dentist, saw a need for dental involvement when he was given a tour at City Union Mission.  “Many of them have problems that need immediate attention,” he said.  “Because of alcohol and tobacco abuse, some of them may have lesions that are potentially life-threatening.  We will be looking for things that hurt, and ways we can prevent future pain, as well as checking for cancer.  The bottom line is that we help them.”
            
Dennis Bennett, a man who is currently on one of City Union Mission’s long-term recovery programs, discovered how dental work impacts your life when Dr. Guy Gronniger, another volunteer dentist, offered to help last November.  “I had 21 teeth pulled in one day and had dentures put in.  It’s unbelievable, but I had no pain.  That’s how good God is,” said Bennett.  “Having a great smile is our window to the world. We live in a little closet of shame because we are so embarrassed about our teeth.  After the dental work, I got my smile back and now I am not embarrassed to shake hands and talk to people.” 

Like the dentists, you can help:  It’s easy…you can request “Have a Heart for the Homeless” cards by calling City Union Mission at 816-474-9380, X1466.  These cards, which have slots in them for coins and bills, are great for passing around to groups, such as co-workers, friends, or churches.  Simply return them to City Union Mission when they are filled to help the homeless and poor.