Rotary Club of Playa del Carmen Seaside Supports Successful Global Dental Relief Clinic in Akumal

Akumal, Quintana Roo – The Rotary Club of Playa del Carmen Seaside recently partnered with Global Dental Relief (GDR) to bring vital dental care to underserved children and families in the Akumal area. From April 5–11, a temporary clinic at the Akumal Community Center hosted volunteer dentists, hygienists, dental assistants, and general volunteers to deliver free dental treatment and preventative care to local residents, many of whom were receiving professional dental attention for the very first time.

Thanks to funds provided by the Rotary Club of Playa del Carmen Seaside and the careful coordination of Seaside Rotarians Julia Buttermore, Lynn Luchs and Vicky Moro, more than 250 children from villages and settlements such as Torres de la Paz, El Sauce, and the Puerto Aventuras poblado were transported to the clinic and treated. These areas are part of the Rotary Club’s ongoing community outreach programs.

Each child received a comprehensive dental exam, fluoride treatment, oral health education—including essential hygiene lessons—and a new toothbrush to take home. When necessary, children also received cleanings, sealants, fillings, and extractions. Dental issues such as infection and chronic pain, which can negatively affect a child’s ability to sleep, eat properly, focus in school, and build self-esteem, were addressed with care and compassion.

The results of the five-day clinic 722 patients were attended to. The total value of the care provided by Global Dental Relief was over $145,000 USD.

“We are so proud to have played a role in this project which aligns perfectly with our club’s mission to improve the daily lives of children in our service area, “ said Seaside Rotarian Lynn Luchs, “We look forward to continuing our partnership with Global Dental Relief and expanding access to health services across our communities.”

The mission of Global Dental Relief is to restore children to bright, healthy smiles—and to return every two years to provide continued care. This year’s effort was made possible thanks to the outstanding collaboration of community leaders and volunteers. Special thanks are extended to Carlos and Jade Ventura from El Sauce, Xiomara Jiménez from the Alcaldía of Puerto Aventuras, Honorina from Torres de la Paz, and the many parent volunteers who accompanied the children.

About the Rotary Club of Playa del Carmen Seaside 

Chartered by Rotary International in 2012, the Rotary Club of Playa del Carmen Seaside is a small English-speaking club with 25 members, each dedicated to upholding the Rotary ideal of“Service Above Self”. The mission of Seaside Rotary is to positively impact the lives of at-risk children and families in our service area, Solidaridad. Seaside Rotary meets every Tuesday from 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM at La Vagabunda Restaurant on Calle 38 in Playa del Carmen. For more information, visit the official website www.playaseasiderotary.org.

PRESS RELEASE SUBMITTED BY THE ROTARY CLUB OF PLAYA DEL CARMEN SEASIDE