JACKSON, Mich. (WLNS) – A nonprofit dental program known as New Smiles New Beginnings, is touring throughout the neighborhood and is providing free dental providers.
Jazmyn Ragland, a Jackson native and dental hygienist with 13 years of expertise, is seeking to make a distinction locally.
(WLNS)
(WLNS)
(WLNS)
“I want to be in the community, I want to make a difference, and I want to help just be the change,” Ragland stated.
Ragland created New Smiles New Beginnings in 2023 shortly after graduating from the College of Michigan Faculty of Dentistry, and says the inspiration began when she was a scientific assistant, touring to completely different areas and faculties throughout Mid-Michigan.
“One of the barriers is lack of transportation, so to be able to go into these communities and see people where they’re at has been helpful for me and for them,” Ragland stated.
John Willis III owns Isaiah’s Hub Group Heart and grew up with Ragland. He says providers like these in underserved communities are essential.
“That’s just a blessing in this neighborhood, a lot of families can’t afford things like that, and so that’s just a part of our mission,” Willis III stated.
“We’ve come together to help families who can’t afford to do things to get it done and make it easier for those families.”
Ragland says probably the most rewarding a part of her work is the connection together with her purchasers.
“I’ve had some people who haven’t had cleanings in 20-30 years,” says Ragland. “I have some kids who are 12 years old and never had their teeth cleaned or have a lot of dental anxiety. And just being able to help those people and give back to my community, that’s very rewarding.”
