NORWICH – Next weekend, area dental professionals will offer up their services to community members who may have found themselves fallen on hard times as the 19th annual “Doctors With a Heart Day” will be held Saturday, Sept. 13 at a number of local dental offices.

For nearly two decades the event has extended a much-needed hand to assist those less than fortunate with exams, x-rays, cleanings and essential procedures such as fillings and sealants that may be necessary to ensure continued overall dental health.

With roots dating back nearly 30 years, Dr. Duane Schmidt, of Cedar Rapids, Ia., founded Doctors with a Heart Day, Inc., to help people in need receive quality dental care in 1987

Today, Doctors with a Heart has become the largest doctor charity in the world. It has been estimated that over 15,000 doctors and their staff in various health care disciplines participate in this day of giving.

Progressive Dental – with office locations throughout Broome and Chenango counties – began taking steps to localize the tradition, which has continued for seventeen years through the steadfast concern of Progressive’s Dr. Spera and his dedicated staff and associates.

Cumulatively throughout the years, all participating doctors and staff have treated more than 4,718 patients and completed over $743,247.00 worth of dental services. “Across the nation, once a year, doctors close their cash drawers to help people who have no means of support,” Dr. Spera said.

These doctors know of no better way to show they care for those in need who live in our community. Out of the 80 staff members who help out during this busy day, 10 to 15 are outside volunteers and community members, according to the Progressive Dental website.

Those with urgent dental needs, who have no money, job, or means of welfare or health care, are invited to visit one of four Progressive Dental office locations, along with two other practices who have joined in the effort to contribute their services.

“Any dental service that can be performed and completed in one visit will be offered, including cleanings, fillings, extractions, fluoride treatments, and X-rays,” said Mary Beth Pichura of Progressive Dental.

Those seeking the assistance of offered services are encouraged to arrive early as the event is first-come, first-served at any of the locations listed below. The event will take place 8 a.m. to noon.