The mission to distribute toothbrushes to underserved populations worldwide originated during a trip to Mindanao, Philippines, where Larry Barr of the Hollister Rotary Club was involved in school construction and renovation projects.
Barr recounted that his initial gesture of giving candy to local children was meant to encourage school attendance. However, he soon realized from fellow Rotary members that these children lacked essential oral hygiene products. This revelation inspired the initiative to collect and distribute toothbrushes, rallying support from Rotary Club members and the broader community.
The project has since flourished, earning global acclaim. Barr’s dedication to this cause, among other Rotary efforts, earned him the prestigious Rotary International Service Above Self Award.
Over the years, the initiative has extended its reach to various countries, including Thailand, the Philippines, Mexico, Panama, Guatemala, Serbia, and Romania. The latest mission took Barr and his team to Metro Manila in May, where they distributed approximately 1,000 toothbrushes. Of these, 250 were sourced from the Rotary Club, while local dentist Dr. Mini Krishnakumar generously donated 750.
The toothbrushes were delivered to the Alay Pagasa orphanage in Mandaluyong City. Dr. Krishnakumar, who has a longstanding history of providing oral hygiene support, shared her motivation for contributing.
Her career began in rural India, where she volunteered to offer basic dental care and hygiene services. Witnessing the lack of awareness and resources for proper dental health, she has made it a mission to give back wherever possible.
Dr. Krishnakumar expressed the significance of her contribution, stating, “Providing toothbrushes is not just a donation; it’s a commitment to advancing public health and preventing dental diseases. This initiative is a step towards promoting healthier lives.”
In recognition of her contribution, Dr. Krishnakumar was honored with an award by the Hollister Rotary Club.
In addition to global toothbrush distributions, Barr and fellow Rotarians are also spearheading a project to supply wheelchairs to those in need in Mexico City. Barr shared a poignant moment, saying, “The photo shows Christian receiving his own wheelchair. It brought him immense joy as it provided him with the mobility he needed to live more independently.”
The Hollister Rotary Club welcomes community members to support their ongoing projects through donations of money or toothbrushes, furthering their mission to aid those in need.
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