When you think of items you would expect to find at a food bank, toothpaste isn’t top-of-mind. But people who struggle to afford groceries also often need help with basic personal items, such as toothbrushes and toothpaste.

Recently, scores of Fraser Valley dentists – including Dr. Patrick Kanda Dental Corp, The Mark Dental Group, Townline Dental, Summit View Dental Centre, Clayburn Dental Group, and NOVO Dental Centre – all stepped up with donations of dental hygiene products to the UFV-SUS Food Bank.

Yvonne and Katie, from NOVO Dental Centre of Abbotsford, went so far as to hand deliver the donated dental supplies to the UFV-SUS Food Bank on the University of the Fraser Valley’s Abbotsford campus.

They were greeted by food bank coordinator Claire Kirk, who was thrilled to receive their donations.

“We often see students who are struggling with their oral health because of their limited financial means,” Kirk said. “These donated supplies will be very gratefully received by our students.”

“NOVO Dental’s donation to the UFV-SUS Food Bank is a wonderful example of how local businesses can make a positive impact on their communities,” said Laura Hotzon D’Alva from UFV’s Advancement team. It serves as a reminder of the importance of giving back and supporting the community. With their act of kindness, they have made it possible for numerous students at UFV to maintain a vital and consistent dental care routine.

To learn more about how you can make a difference in the lives of current or future UFV students, please contact UFV Advancement at giving@ufv.ca or (604) 854-4595.