Independence Day is so important to our country that, in 1870, Congress made July 4th a federal holiday. It has been one of the most widely celebrated holidays in the nation since the Continental Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. Independence Day is symbolic of our collective determination to be free from the tyranny of Great Britain and our willingness to secure independence by paying a costly price in human lives.
On July 4, we often reflect on the sacrifices of our earliest patriots. Let’s also think about our living veterans, who’ve served their country and dedicated themselves to preserving our freedoms. They deserve our respect and support.
Unfortunately, while many veterans have serious oral health conditions, a very small percentage are eligible to receive dental care through the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA). Yet oral diseases negatively impact their health, adding even more challenges to their lives and making it more difficult as they seek employment. Oral health is so important to general health and overall wellbeing, we make increasing access to dental care for veterans one of our giving priorities. Everyone deserves a healthy smile.
Whether we’re awarding grants to small community dental programs that already serve veterans, or we’re helping to develop larger, statewide programs that provide dental services through networks of not-for-profit dental clinics and Federally Qualified Health Centers, we fund oral health programs that are helping veterans who might not otherwise receive the services needed to make them, and keep them, healthier and able to experience life with less pain.
We’re grateful for the opportunity to participate in the Lifeline Heroes Challenge, an initiative of the Dental Lifeline Network, to help 1,000 veterans receive comprehensive dental treatment. Dental Lifeline Network (also known as Donated Dental Services) provides comprehensive dental care to adults with developmental disabilities, aging adults, veterans, and other adults whose health is medically compromised across the United States through the generosity of a network of volunteer dentists and laboratories. Whenever possible, they prioritize finding care for veterans that have a disability, are elderly or need life-saving care. In 2023, 941 veterans across the country received over $3.7 million in donated care! Northeast Delta Dental is also a longtime supporter of the Dental Lifeline Network state programs in our tri-state region.
July 4 is commonly celebrated with community fireworks, parades and concerts; and families gather for barbeques and other outdoor activities. The American flag is more widely, and possibly a bit more proudly, displayed by individuals and communities. It’s an appropriate day to think about, and appreciate, our military heroes—those who names we recognize and those whose names are largely unknown—who in the past and present contribute to the greatness of the United States of America.
