MADISON (WKOW) -- Medical costs can be difficult to cover on a tight budget, and what's often neglected first is dental care. But one non-profit group is hoping to help those who can't always afford these services-- to get the care they need.
Touched Twice Madison put on their 9th year of free clinic Saturday. They host the event twice a year, offering all kinds of services to keep people healthy.
"We make sure our guests feel special, we give them the massages and the chiropractic care to make sure they leave feeling good about themselves," says coordinator Felicia Pendleton.
People like Evelyn Rider say they're grateful. Evelyn and her grandniece came to the clinic Saturday to take care of some things they don't always have the time or money to do.
"Even though I work full time it's kind of hard to meet all the expenses of everything," says Evelyn.
Organizers say 800 to 1,200 people typically show up to these clinics, and they come as early as 6 p.m. the night before to get in line. This time, they had to open the doors at 4:30 a.m. to get started on the dental care.
Pendleton says it wouldn't be possible without the help of the professionals volunteering their time to keep the community healthy.
"If we focus on prevention, it can be less expensive so that's really what we talk to patients about is get in and even if you don't have insurance at least get a cleaning," says Dr. Robb Warren, a dentist.
In its nine years-- the clinic has saved people more than $5 million in dental costs alone.
If you missed this opportunity, dental professionals from across the state will be hosting an even larger clinic called Mission of Mercy at the Alliant Energy Center in June. That's put on by the Wisconsin Dental Association from June 28-July 1. Click here for more info.
