DVI 2024: A Year of Challenges, Growth and Compassion

Emergency Support for Displaced Families: In response to the multi-front war in Israel, DVI became a critical resource for displaced families from northern and southern Israel. With over 2000 evacuees seeking refuge in Jerusalem, our clinic provided urgent, high-quality dental care during these uncertain times. Our commitment to being a safe haven for those in need was strengthened through these efforts, ensuring that evacuees received compassionate care when they needed it most.

The Lone Soldiers Project: DVI’s Lone Soldiers Project continues to provide essential dental care to soldiers who have made aliyah without familial support. These brave individuals who defend Israel often lack access to basic health services. By extending our clinic hours and expanding services beyond Jerusalem to cities like Be’er Sheva and Tel Aviv, we aim to ensure that all lone soldiers receive the care they deserve. Our efforts focus on soldiers at every stage of their service, from pre-enlistment to active duty and post-service.

Pediatric Residency Training Program: DVI’s Pediatric Residency Training Program, the only program outside of Israel’s dental schools, continues to thrive. Residents from prestigious institutions gain hands-on experience in treating special-needs and trauma-affected children under the guidance of DVI’s expert pediatric dentists. This program ensures that the next generation of dental professionals carries forward our mission of compassionate care.

Free Dentures Program for the Elderly and Holocaust Survivors: Our Free Dentures Program has transformed the lives of low-income elderly patients, including Holocaust survivors. Thanks to a new in-house lab, we now provide same-day denture repairs, ensuring faster service for our patients. Our outreach to elderly centers, veterans’ facilities and nursing homes has brought smiles to many faces, reducing isolation and improving overall well-being.

Oral Health Education for At-Risk Youth: DVI remains committed to breaking cycles of poor health and poverty through comprehensive dental care and oral hygiene education for at-risk youth and their families. By providing essentials such as toothbrushes and toothpaste, we empower children to maintain good oral health, even when financial barriers exist.

Infrastructure Improvements: This year, DVI undertook several key infrastructure improvements to enhance our clinic’s welcoming atmosphere. We replaced old air conditioning units and began planning a memorial garden to honor Zecharia Haber hy’d, a soldier who fell in Gaza whose family lives in the neighborhood. Additionally, a pergola near the waiting room will provide shelter from extreme weather, creating a more comfortable space for patients.