Access Dental Care Receives Final Award of 2025
Wilmington, N.C. The Endowment is pleased to announce its final grant award for 2025 to Access Dental Care, bringing total grant commitments in New Hanover County for the year to more than $59 million and over $177 million since inception.
A leader in special care dentistry, Access Dental Care provides services to individuals with complex needs—including older adults—who face barriers to traditional care. This $300,000 grant complements funding from the County and will fund a mobile dental truck, customized equipment, and the training and support of a second mobile dental team, expanding access to oral health services across New Hanover County.
Access Dental Care collaborates with the New Hanover County Health Department, New Hanover County Senior Resource Center, The Cape Fear Clinic, The Healing Place and long-term care facilities to deliver integrated, community-focused care to residents with the greatest needs.
“Access Dental Care provides an essential service to some of our most vulnerable community members,” said Leigh Quarles, Network Officer, Social & Health Equity. “We are proud to support their expansion and help ensure that all residents of New Hanover County have access to high-quality oral health care.”
“The Endowment proudly supports New Hanover County organizations, such as Access Dental Care, that make a tangible difference in the lives of our neighbors,” said Interim President and CEO Sophie Dagenais. “As we head into 2026, we look forward to continuing to support efforts and solutions that strengthen our community and expand access to critical services.”
About The Endowment
The Endowment’s mission is to improve the health, education, safety, and economic opportunity of every person in New Hanover County. The Endowment was established from the sale of the county-owned New Hanover Regional Medical Center to Novant Health in 2020. The initial fund has grown from nearly $1.3 billion to more than $1.7 billion, allowing The Endowment to award millions in grants to our community every year, in perpetuity.
To stay informed about upcoming grant opportunities, news, and community events, follow The Endowment on social media or subscribe to the newsletter at www.theendowment.org
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