News and Information

CLEVELAND, OHIO – February 10, 2025 – The Cuyahoga County Juvenile Court (CCJC), in collaboration with MedWish Medworks www.medwish.org, hosted a successful dental clinic at the Cuyahoga County Juvenile Detention Center (CCJDC) on Saturday, February 8th, providing essential dental care to youth in need. Over the course of the day, 51 youth received critical dental services, including cleanings, fillings, and extractions, ensuring urgent cases were prioritized.

"This was our second visit and first large-scale clinic at CCJDC, and it was an incredible success," said Dr. Roger Hess, Board Member and Dental Lead at MedWish Medworks. "Many of these young people face challenges beyond their control, and ensuring they receive the dental care they deserve is incredibly rewarding."

“We are incredibly grateful for the volunteers at Medworks and the support of Councilwoman Conwell for today’s successful dental clinic for our Detention Center residents. Providing dental care is core to overall physical health. Our community is strong when we collaborate together”, said Bridget Gibbons, Deputy Court Administrator here at the Cuyahoga County Juvenile Court.

Funding from the Delta Dental Foundation and the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) program through Cuyahoga County made this clinic possible, allowing for the purchase of 10 portable dental chairs, units, and instruments to expand services in non-medical locations like CCJDC.

"This program not only improves oral health but also fosters positive interactions between youth and volunteers, helping them feel valued and cared for," said Britta Latz, CEO of MedWish Medworks. "For some of the youth we treated, this was their first-ever visit to a dentist. We look forward to returning every six months to continue this important work."

This ongoing partnership between CCJC and MedWish Medworks underscores the Court’s commitment to the health and well-being of court-involved youth, ensuring they receive vital care despite barriers to access.