Virginia Oral Health Coalition Receives Community Award

On October 18 we were honored to receive the Williamsburg Health Foundation Annual Award for our collaborative work with partners in Williamsburg and across the state to improve health outcomes.

The award, given each year to an organization that has improved the lives of Williamsburg residents, recognized the incredible efforts made by VaOHC staff and community partners. We were proud to be acknowledged alongside Williamsburg area providers, including Child Development Resources, Lackey Clinic, Norge Dental Center, Olde Towne Medical & Dental Center, and Thomas Nelson Community College, all of which help to ensure area residents can access affordable oral health care services.

During the awards ceremony, our CEO Sarah Bedard Holland spoke of the valuable role community partnerships play to provide integrated care and improve health outcomes. By addressing oral health needs at the local level, Williamsburg created a community-driven system that helps care for its residents. Holland also touched on a need for broader, systemic change to truly deliver comprehensive health care to all.

With poor oral health worsening chronic disease, increasing the risk of preterm birth, and degrading employability, it is vital that we continue to work at a systems change level across the Commonwealth to enables all Virginians to access the oral health care services they need. With this award, we will be able to provide critical operational support and continue advancing our mission to ensure that everyone in Virginia has access to affordable, comprehensive health care that includes oral health.

To learn more about the great work being done in Williamsburg, take a few minutes to watch the video from the Williamsburg Health Foundation on oral health in the community.

Thank you to all of our partners who contribute to shared successes and better health!