SSM Health supports area organizations

SSM Health supports Fond du Lac County Health Department Save a Smile Dental Program

No child should grow up without the benefit of good dental hygiene. Poor oral health among children has been related to poor performance in school, poor social relationships, and less success later in life.

SSM Health has given a $20,000 donation to the Fond du Lac County Health Department Save a Smile Dental Program to help area children and adults with limited finances to receive dental services.

The Save a Smile Children’s Dental Program provides preventive and restorative dental services for Fond du Lac County residents, ages 18 and under, with Medical Assistance only.

The Save a Smile Adult Program assists only with urgent dental needs. Adults on Medical Assistance or that meet a specified income level may be eligible for assistance.  It does not cover root canals, crowns, partials or dentures.

Fond du Lac County has approximately 7,800 children and 6,000 adults enrolled in medical assistance.

“This program allows families to receive dental care locally instead of having to travel long distances for care,” according to Stephanie Hopf, Save a Smile Dental Program coordinator. “Oral health is often an overlooked piece of the health puzzle, and oral health and overall health are directly related. Someone with poor oral health is more likely to suffer from cardiovascular disease, dementia, respiratory infections, diabetes, kidney disease, and rheumatoid arthritis. Preventive dental care can help to reduce the overall burden of disease and health care costs.”

Save a Smile exemplifies public and private partners coming together to address a local community need, including SSM Health.

“SSM Health recognizes the importance of dental care access for individuals and how poor dental health negatively impacts physical health,” according to Shane Smith, SSM Health Fond du Lac Market president. “Supporting Save a Smile fits within our mission to provide compassionate care for all.”

For more information on the Save a Smile program, call the Fond du Lac County Health Department at 920-929-3090. 

In 2024, SSM Health Greater Fond du Lac’s community benefit ministry totaled more than $568,000 across the communities it serves. This investment helps ensure access to health care for patients who are uninsured or underinsured, train the next generation of health professionals to care for those in need, and fund programs to address the most pressing health needs of our communities.

SSM Health supporting Drug Free Communities of Fond du Lac

            SSM Health is giving $15,000 to Drug Free Communities of Fond du Lac, a collaboration coalition dedicated to fostering a safer and more supportive environment through focused initiatives and collaborative efforts to address the growing issue of substance use in our communities.

The overarching goal is to significantly reduce the prevalence of substance use, particularly concerning narcotics and alcohol among adolescents within the Fond du Lac community.

            “By focusing on education and prevention, the Drug Free Communities of Fond du Lac aims to enhance public health by reducing the harmful effects of substance use on youth and their families,” according to Jeanette Morales, Fond du Lac County United Way Drug Free Communities community impact coordinator. “The coalition works closely with schools, law enforcement, and community organizations to ensure that youth are exposed to healthy, substance-free lifestyles.”

            The donation recognizes that SSM Health understands the pain and devastation of addiction, as well as the emotional and mental illnesses that may be associated with it.

“Our mission is to provide quality and compassionate care to individuals struggling with alcohol and/or drug conditions and mental health issues,” according to Jodi Dietzel, SSM Health Fond du Lac Market administrator. “Preventing mental and/or substance use disorders or co-occurring disorders, and related concerns is critical to behavioral and physical health.”

To learn more, call Fond du Lac County United Way at 920-921-7010 or visit fdlunitedway.org.

In 2024, SSM Health Greater Fond du Lac’s community benefit ministry totaled more than $568,000 across the communities it serves. This investment helps ensure access to health care for patients who are uninsured or underinsured, train the next generation of health professionals to care for those in need, and fund programs to address the most pressing health needs of our communities.

SSM Health supporting Blandine House

            SSM Health is giving $45,000 to the Blandine House Inc., a residential treatment facility for men struggling with alcohol and/or substance use addiction.

Blandine House Inc. is a non-profit facility and is governed by a board of directors who have volunteered their time, energy and guidance to continue to follow and expand upon the original vision of Sister Blandine to help alcoholics and addicts. In 2024, 58 men were treated.

            “We know that so many more men could benefit from our services,” according to Julie Feilbach, executive director. “We are continuing to work on our second recovery house, and there are still many needs associated with that like furniture, appliances, household and bedding, along with funds to build a garage for lawn and snow care equipment.”

            Work is also underway to transform the backyard into an outdoor patio and recreation space for clients. “It is important to keep them active and promoting healthy behaviors along with the fellowship of other recovering men in fun and productive ways,” Feilbach adds.

            The donation recognizes that SSM Health understands the pain and devastation of addiction, as well as the emotional and mental illnesses that may be associated with it.

“Supporting men facing substance use addiction is crucial due to the significant societal impact of addiction, including health consequences, strained relationships, and economic burdens,” according to Bill Boyd, SSM Health St. Agnes Hospital vice president of operations. “Men are disproportionately affected by addiction and often face unique barriers to treatment, such as societal pressure to be strong and avoid vulnerability, which can hinder help-seeking behavior. Supporting men in recovery fosters healthier communities and allows individuals to reclaim their lives and contribute positively to society.”

To learn more, call the Blandine House at 920-922-9487 or visit blandinehouse.org.

In 2024, SSM Health Greater Fond du Lac’s community benefit ministry totaled more than $568,000 across the communities it serves. This investment helps ensure access to health care for patients who are uninsured or underinsured, train the next generation of health professionals to care for those in need, and fund programs to address the most pressing health needs of our communities.