Peoples' Self-Help Housing

Peoples' Self-Help Housing

For Immediate Release

Contact: Chris Davis/Marjorie Wass (805) 687-3322

Hundreds of Low Income Kids Get Free Dental Care at Dahlia Court and Camper Park In Carpinteria

Peoples’ Self-Help Housing and Direct Relief Join Forces for Dental Screening, Education

Santa Barbara, CA, May 10, 2006—Direct Relief International is supporting the community services provided by Peoples' Self-Help Housing in a collaboration to bring dental care to over 130 resident kids at the Dahlia Court Apartments in Carpinteria and the Carpinteria Camper Park.

This past Friday, May 5, a total of 75 children were seen at Dahlia Court Apartments. Of those that were examined, 21% need dental treatment (untreated cavities) and 10% have emergency dental needs. This Thursday, May 11, approximately 60 more kids from Carpinteria Camper Park will be examined.

Carpinteria dentist Dr. Bob Berkenmeier, is once again providing the dental screening for the children at Dahlia and Carpinteria Camper Park free of charge. Following each screening, Direct Relief International conducts bilingual dental instruction and an entertaining demonstration in healthy dental hygiene practices. Each family who attends receives a family dental kit. Parents are encouraged to attend with their children so they can also be educated on dental health and learn if their children have problems and need follow up. Peoples’ Self-Help Housing and Direct Relief International will then work together to find follow up treatment for children who need it.

--Media Advisory--

Who: 60 (a total of 130 for both screening locations) school-age children and their parents, representatives of Peoples Self-Help Housing, Direct Relief International, volunteers, program partners including Dr. Bob Berkenmeier, D.D.S. and staff.

What: Carpinteria Camper Park resident kids and parents participate in basic dental exams/screenings, observe a fun demonstration on healthy dental hygiene, and receive family dental care kits.

Where: Carpinteria Camper Park, 4096 Villa Real, Carpinteria

When: Thursday, May 11 from 3:30 to 7:30 PM

Peoples' Self-Help Housing is an award winning non-profit organization with 35 years of experience developing affordable housing and community facilities for low-income and special needs households. With over 1000 ownership homes completed and over 1200 rental units developed, PSHH continues to strengthen its reputation and leadership position as the premiere affordable housing and community developer on the Central Coast. PSHH is committed to developing vibrant neighborhoods, building attractive, high quality housing and to providing innovative community services, so their residents have every possible opportunity to succeed in life. www.pshhc.org

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