The Smile Grant Program, administered by the Wisconsin Dental Association Foundation, provides essential oral hygiene supplies to underserved populations across the state of Wisconsin. This in-kind grant opportunity supports the Foundation's mission to promote oral health by equipping nonprofit organizations with toothbrushes and toothpaste for distribution to at-risk individuals, including children, adults, and seniors.
The program is designed for 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that are headquartered in Wisconsin and operate solely within the state. All supplies awarded must be used for charitable purposes and within Wisconsin. Each organization may apply for the Smile Grant only once during any 12-month period, and cannot simultaneously apply for or receive the Foundation’s Annual Grant within the same calendar year.
The Smile Program awards up to 288 toothbrushes and toothpaste tubes per organization annually. Supplies are distributed strictly in increments of 72 units (e.g., 72, 144, 216, or 288). The Foundation reserves the right to limit distribution quantities and will close the program for the calendar year once supplies are depleted. Submission of a request does not guarantee an award, and the Foundation’s decisions are final.
Requests must be submitted by email with the subject line “Smile Program Request” and must include the completed official request form along with the organization’s IRS Letter of Determination. Applications should be submitted at least three to four weeks prior to the anticipated need to accommodate for processing and potential delays. Incomplete applications or those that do not follow the required submission format will not be considered.
All requests are reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the calendar year. Notifications of approval or denial are sent directly to applicants. The Foundation is not responsible for misdirected emails or delayed shipments. If awarded, the recipient organization agrees to recognize the WDA Foundation as a supporter and to use the supplies in a manner consistent with the program's charitable goals.
Applicants with questions or needing further assistance are encouraged to contact Penny Yerke, Administrative Assistant, via email at pyerke@wda.org or phone at 414-755-4190. The application form and instructions are available on the Foundation’s website.
Submit complete applications 3–4 weeks before supplies are needed; supplies limited; one request per year; no guarantee of award
