United We Smile receiving federal grant to expand services
TRAVERSE CITY, Mich., Aug. 25, 2023 — State Rep. Betsy Coffia (D-Traverse City) toured a local office building that will become the new home of a dental clinic providing care to underserved populations. United We Smile is a collaboration between the United Way of Northwest Michigan and the University of Michigan School of Dentistry to provide dental services to those who require special accommodations. Federal grant money is allowing the clinic to move into a new space in Traverse City.
State Rep. Betsy Coffia (D-Traverse City), second from right, helped present a tribute to United Way of Northwest Michigan Executive Director Seth Johnson, second from left, on the opening of the new space for United We Smile, a clinic offering dental services to the underserved and those with special needs.
“I have been a fierce advocate for increased health care services of all types in our community as a basic need we all have, so this federal funding is tremendously positive news,” Coffia said. “I’m grateful to see that such a valuable service in Traverse City won’t just continue but expand, making sure that no one goes without vital dental care.”
Late last month, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced grants from the American Rescue Plan Act to rural health care organizations across the country. Combined, United Way of Northwest Michigan and United We Smile will receive almost $1.5 million to renovate the new space and add a community center to the facility.