CRANSTON – Individuals impacted by the criminal legal system can access free dental services this summer through a partnership between the nonprofit groups Justice Assistance and CareLink.
Eligible Justice Assistance clients and community members can access these preventative oral health services, including cleanings and screenings, through a mobile CareLink service set up at Justice Assistance’s JA Health & Wellness primary and behavioral health clinic.
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Healthcare and dental services are often particularly hard to access for people who have been impacted by the criminal legal system, the nonprofits note, with cost, lack of insurance, transportation difficulties and stigma all posing barriers.
“Too many of the individuals we serve have gone years without consistent access to basic healthcare, including dental care,” Justice Assistance CEO Jake Bissaillon said in a statement. “At JA Health & Wellness, our goal is to address health inequity in a practical and compassionate way by bringing services directly to the people who need them most.”
Bissaillon said the partnership with CareLink allows Justice Assistant to “meet clients where they are, build trust and connect them to care that supports their dignity, health and long-term stability.”
“CareLink’s mission has always been centered on improving access to dental care for individuals who would otherwise face significant barriers to receiving it,” said Kelley Hurley, director of clinical services at CareLink, adding that the partnership “allows us to bring care directly to individuals in a familiar and supportive environment, ensuring that more Rhode Islanders have access to the dental services they need and deserve.”
Those interested can reach out to Justice Assistance directly to determine eligibility and set up a dental clinic appointment, the nonprofit said.
Jacquelyn Voghel is a PBN staff writer. You may reach her at Voghel@PBN.com.
