Lifetime of Smiles

Cass Community Health Foundation working toward capital campaign goal, receives gifts

constuction site with walls and patio

BELTON, Mo., (Oct. 24, 2024) – Cass Community Health Foundation has secured two generous $25,000 grants from Centene Foundation and the Geraldine and R.A. Barrows Foundation, UMB Bank, n.a., Trustee, designated for the new Cass County Dental Clinic in Belton, Missouri. This support will enable the foundation and its safety-net dental clinic to expand access to quality dental care for underserved children and their families.

Cass Community Health Foundation opened Cass County Dental Clinic in Belton, Missouri in 2011 to provide comprehensive oral health services for children and teens who are insured by Medicaid or who are low-income and uninsured. In 2023, the clinic served more than 4,000 children, exceeding capacity. As a result, Cass Community Health Foundation has launched a capital campaign, A Lifetime of Smiles, and broke ground for the clinic’s future home at 1000 E. Markey Parkway in Belton, Missouri. This location will increase clinical space and access for quality, compassionate dental care.

The Centene Foundation, the charitable arm of Centene Corporation, is committed to improving the health and well-being of communities by addressing critical social determinants of health, such as access to healthcare, education, housing, and food security. Through strategic partnerships and grantmaking, the foundation works to promote health equity and enhance the quality of life for underserved populations, providing essential resources to support vulnerable individuals and families across the nation.

UMB Bank’s charitable efforts support nonprofit organizations through grants and community initiatives that promote education, health, and economic stability. By investing in programs that empower underserved populations, the foundation helps build stronger, more resilient communities across the country.

“We are deeply thankful to the Centene Foundation and to Geraldine and R.A. Barrows Foundation, UMB Bank, n.a., Trustee for their generous contributions to our capital campaign,” said Cynthia Randazzo, Cass Community Health Foundation president and CEO. “These donations will play a critical role in helping us establish the new Cass County Dental Clinic, allowing us to greatly expand access to essential dental care for those who otherwise couldn’t afford it. This support brings us closer to ensuring equitable dental care for all members of our community.

The new Cass County Dental Clinic is a $5 million project. To help raise the additional funds necessary to complete the project, donate to the campaign or make a pledge at casscommunityhealth.org/lifetimeofsmiles or call 816-276-4218.