Dental Volunteers for Israel was established in 1980 by the late Ms. Trudi Birger, a Holocaust survivor who dedicated her life to the humanitarian care and dignity of disadvantaged children in Israel. Today, more than 45 years later, the organization operates the only clinic in the country that provides completely free dental care to underserved children, at risk youth, and young adults (ages 4–26), as well as to the elderly, Holocaust survivors, new immigrants, evacuees, refugees and asylum seekers, and lone soldiers. The Clinic provides treatment and services to all regardless of race, religion, or nationality.
Patients are referred to us by a broad network of social service agencies and care organizations, including municipal social service departments, youth villages, women’s shelters, absorption centers, and other nonprofits.
In 2016, Dental Volunteers for Israel expanded its mission to include free dentures for elderly individuals and Holocaust survivors. The response to this program was overwhelming, reflecting the urgent need for restorative treatment that enables basic functions such as eating, speaking, socializing, and maintaining personal dignity.