A Rewarding Summer Project - Dental Hygiene Kit Drive

In a meaningful initiative to promote public health and well-being, a dental hygiene kit drive was organized to collect essential oral care products—including toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash—to support underserved families in the Tri-City Area through Salaam Food Pantry.

The summer project was spearheaded by Aisha Hanif, a sophomore at Foothill High School, who personally sought out an opportunity to participate in dental health awareness and make a positive impact in her community. Already familiar with Salaam Food Pantry through her volunteer work, Aisha knew it would be a meaningful way to help get the kits into the hands of families who could benefit from them. Working entirely on her initiative, she coordinated the effort by reaching out to local dental offices and businesses. Donors were encouraged to contribute supplies to help assemble kits for individuals and families in need. “We’re hoping to collect 5 to 10 items per donor, but truly any donation makes a difference,” she explained. “Even travel-size or sample-size products would be greatly appreciated.”

Thanks to the generosity of the community, the drive raised over 165 dental hygiene kits. These completed kits—distributed every Sunday at the pantry—provide recipients with vital tools to maintain good oral health, an often overlooked but essential aspect of personal hygiene for those who face barriers to accessing these products.

Aisha’s summer project not only supported her community but also helped her develop valuable life skills such as drafting professional emails, making outreach phone calls, and designing flyers to raise awareness. Reflecting on the experience, she shared: “This project taught me how to take initiative and communicate with people I’ve never met. But more than that, it showed me how rewarding it feels to make even a small difference.”

A staff member at one participating dental office acknowledged the importance of the drive, saying, “We’re happy to play a part in supporting this drive and helping promote the health and well-being of those in need.”

In today’s challenging economic environment, many individuals and families find it difficult to afford everyday necessities, including dental care products. This dental hygiene kit drive offers much more than just supplies; it offers hope and care to those who need it most, reflecting the community’s dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of its underserved members.

Special thanks to the following dental offices for participating in our dental kit drive: Dublin Corners Dental, Sunshine Family Dental, Dublin Smiles Dentistry, Pleasanton Valley Dental, Fallon Dental Group, and Dublin Unique Dentistry.

Anam Hanif

Staff Writer