Nichole Babbitt had endured years of pain due to a broken wisdom tooth that exposed its root. The 41-year-old mother, who struggled with addiction for two decades before getting clean a year ago, described the pain as unbearable, causing swelling and frequent headaches. “It has been super painful to live like this,” Babbitt shared.
Her situation became even more challenging when she sought dental care during her stay at a drug treatment center. The dentist provided an estimate of $3,000 for the removal or restoration of the tooth, an amount she could not afford. Babbitt, who had not visited a dentist since she was 18, felt hopeless. However, her circumstances changed when she was nominated for the Austin American-Statesman’s Season for Caring program, which provides vital services to families in need.
As part of the program, Babbitt received a dental screening from volunteers at the Capital Area Dental Foundation on Saturday. The foundation, which has provided over $220,000 in dental care since 2011, pairs families with dentists who offer treatments such as cleanings, fillings, and crowns. Donations from the public help cover essential costs like anesthesia and lab fees.
Each year, Season for Caring highlights 12 families or individuals nominated by local nonprofits. The program not only helps cover the nominated families’ specific needs but also benefits hundreds of others, assisting with basic necessities like rent, groceries, medical care, and transportation. Babbitt’s nomination came through the Foundation for the Homeless, and she is now receiving the dental care she so desperately needed.
Another recipient, Ana Martínez Aranda, was nominated by Hospice Austin. She and her mother, Olga Aranda Guzmán, received dental screenings as well. The family fled violence in Mexico to seek better healthcare for Olga, who is battling end-stage renal failure. “It was great,” Martínez said, expressing gratitude for the opportunity. “I’m so happy for both of us.”
Dr. Stan LaCroix, who oversees the Access to Care Program for the Capital Area Dental Foundation, reported that the screenings were successful, though they uncovered “some fairly serious problems.” He emphasized that the foundation would reach out to its network of member dentists to arrange for further treatment.
Season for Caring’s impact is significant, not just for individuals like Babbitt and Martínez Aranda but also for the community. Dr. LaCroix noted, “It makes us feel good to do it. It’s good to give back to the community.” The program continues to provide crucial support for those who lack access to essential healthcare services.
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