Sharks Foundation funds free dental screenings for 1,600 Bay Area kids

A dental health event took place at Lowell Elementary School in San Jose this week. The Sharks Foundation and Healthier Kids Foundation joined forces to offer free screenings and hygiene kits to students. The initiative was backed by a $40,000 grant from the Sharks Foundation's Community Assist program. The activation saw S.J. Sharkie, the Sharks' mascot, engaging with children as they received dental check-ups. Free hygiene kits were distributed, and students learned about oral health in a fun, interactive way. Jenné Johnson, the Sharks Foundation's Director of Operations, highlighted concerns over limited dental care access for many local children.

The partnership will expand support through the **Dental First** program, targeting 1,600 Bay Area students aged 5 to 12. Funds from the grant will boost screening visits, improve case management, and strengthen outreach efforts. Additionally, an educational tutorial featuring S.J. Sharkie will be created by Sharks Video Productions and added to the foundation's curriculum. The tutorial is set to launch in March, aligning with National Children's Dental Health Month. Both organisations remain focused on enhancing health and well-being for young students across the region.

The $40,000 grant will help extend dental services and resources to more children in the coming year. With 1,600 students expected to benefit, the program aims to reduce barriers to oral healthcare. The collaboration between the Sharks Foundation and Healthier Kids Foundation continues to grow, supporting Bay Area youth.