Dental Grant Program Public Service Announcement

TALLAHASSEE, FLA.- Florida Veterans Foundation Launches Statewide Veterans Dental Program.

The Florida Veterans Foundation (FVF) is pleased to announce the launch of the Veterans Dental Program, funded by a generous $1 million appropriation from the Florida Legislature. This groundbreaking initiative is designed to expand access to vital dental care services for eligible veterans throughout the state.

Under this program, the FVF will manage a comprehensive network of 501(c)(3) organizations to deliver a full range of dental services to veterans who qualify. The program emphasizes the importance of oral health in overall well-being and seeks to address the gap in dental care services for veterans who are not fully covered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

"We are honored to lead this initiative, which will directly impact the lives of many veterans across Florida. Our goal is to ensure that every eligible veteran has access to the dental care they need, improving their quality of life and overall health."

-Dr. Pia S. Woodley, DBA

Chair, Florida Veterans Foundation

Key features of the Veterans Dental Program include:

- Eligibility and Enrollment: The program is open to Florida residents who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces and meet specific criteria, including income level and service status.

• Been issued a DD-214, NGB 22 or Certificate of Discharge.

• Residency requirement - eligible veterans must reside in Florida.

• Be at a 300% Poverty Level or below as defined by the federal government at the time of their application.

• Be less than 100% service-connected disabled.

- Statewide Dental Network: The FVF will partner with 501(c)(3) organizations across Florida to ensure services are accessible to veterans in all regions.

- Comprehensive Care: Services will include routine exams, cleanings, fillings, and other necessary dental procedures.

- Outreach and Education: The FVF will work closely with veteran service organizations and community partners to promote the program and educate veterans about their eligibility.

Statewide veteran-centric organizations interested in participating in the program can learn more and apply online at https://www.helpflvets.org/dentalprogram. Organizations applying to be a Grantee will be required to do the following: 

• Submit their application to the Florida Veterans Foundation (“FVF”) online by a deadline set in the fiscal year the Florida Legislature awards the grant funding.

• Demonstrate that they can facilitate dental care services including dental maintenance and disease elimination, or diagnostics and dental hygiene for veterans through qualified prospective Awardees.

• Coordinate with the Florida Dental Association, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and other pertinent organizations to assess veteran dental needs in their geographic area of responsibility.

Grantee Workplan Requirements

Administering the Program: The Veterans Dental Grant Program Grantees will be required to distribute grant funds according to the requirements set forth by the FVF by:

• Ensuring verification of veteran's status by reviewing their DD-214s, NGB 22 or Military Discharge documents or applicable U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs forms.

• Dispersing funds based on the requirements of the FVF-provided contract.

• Tracking the dental services provided to veterans by:

  • Reporting the number of veterans served.

  • Tracking Program expenses.

  • Requiring treated veterans to complete an online satisfaction survey.

• Attempting to obtain a signed consent form from clients for testimonials before treatment is provided.

• Protecting veteran data (name, branch, cost, etc.) via encryption software and access codes according to HIPAA information security standards.

For more information, please contact us at fvf@fdva.fl.gov. 

The Florida Veterans Foundation is dedicated to providing essential services and support to veterans throughout Florida. Through programs like the Veterans Dental Program, the FVF aims to improve the quality of life for those who have served our nation.