When you think of items you would expect to find at a food bank, toothpaste isn’t top-of-mind. But people who struggle to afford groceries also often need help with basic personal items, such as toothbrushes and toothpaste.

Dental Supply Donations to Student Food Bank

Recently, scores of Fraser Valley dentists – including Dr. Patrick Kanda Dental Corp, The Mark Dental Group, Townline Dental, Summit View Dental Centre, Clayburn Dental Group, and NOVO Dental Centre – all stepped up with donations of dental hygiene products to the UFV-SUS Food Bank.

Yvonne and Katie, from NOVO Dental Centre of Abbotsford, went so far as to hand deliver the donated dental supplies to the UFV-SUS Food Bank on the University of the Fraser Valley’s Abbotsford campus.

Dental Supply Donations to Student Food Bank

“NOVO Dental’s donation to the UFV-SUS Food Bank is a wonderful example of how local businesses can make a positive impact on their communities,” said Laura Hotzon D’Alva

They were greeted by food bank coordinator Claire Kirk, who was thrilled to receive their donations.

Dental supply donations to student food Bank

Katie Tenbroek and Yvonne van Halderen from NOVO Dental Centre with UFV-SUS Food Bank Coordinator Claire Kirk

“We often see students who are struggling with their oral health because of their limited financial means,” Kirk said. “These donated supplies will be very gratefully received by our students.”

“NOVO Dental’s donation to the UFV-SUS Food Bank is a wonderful example of how local businesses can make a positive impact on their communities,” said Laura Hotzon D’Alva from UFV’s Advancement team. It serves as a reminder of the importance of giving back and supporting the community. With their act of kindness, they have made it possible for numerous students at UFV to maintain a vital and consistent dental care routine.

To learn more about how you can make a difference in the lives of current or future UFV students, please contact UFV Advancement at giving@ufv.ca or (604) 854-4595.

Special thanks to Laura Hotzon D’Alva for reaching out to NOVO Dental Centre and for providing us the opportunity to contribute to this worthy campaign. Laura is seen in the top photo with Katie Tenbroek.

The University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) supports students in need with a variety of personal care items ranging from nutritious food to health care essentials including toothbrushes, toothpaste, and dental floss.

In the 2021-2022 academic year, UFV helped more than 3,000 students meet their emergency needs. These students go on to become the teachers, tradespeople, and dental care practitioners we all rely on.

Claire Kirk, the Student Support Coordinator, runs the UFV-SUS Food Bank is seen above.