Florida Veterans Foundation announces the beginning of a new dental care program to help veterans across the state access essential services

Tallahassee, Florida – In a significant step toward closing a longstanding gap in healthcare services for Florida’s veterans, the Florida Veterans Foundation (FVF) has officially launched its statewide Veterans Dental Program. This pioneering initiative aims to provide crucial dental services at no cost to eligible veterans who are not covered under the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ limited dental care benefits.

The new program, made possible through the support of the Florida Legislature and a network of nonprofit organizations, is designed to help veterans across the state gain access to services that many have struggled to obtain. From routine dental exams and cleanings to fillings and other essential procedures, the Veterans Dental Program is expected to dramatically improve the quality of life for thousands of former service members.

“We are honored to lead this initiative, which will directly impact the lives of many Veterans across Florida. Our goal is to ensure that every eligible Veteran has access to the dental care they need, improving their quality of life and overall health,” said Dr. Pia S. Woodley, DBA, Chair of the Florida Veterans Foundation.

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For many veterans, dental care is often overlooked or unaffordable. Although the VA provides excellent healthcare coverage in many areas, only around 15% of veterans qualify for dental benefits through federal channels. That leaves a large portion of the veteran population without access to regular and preventive dental treatment. The Veterans Dental Program was designed specifically to address this shortfall.

The initiative stems from 2023 legislation, CS/HB 635, which was championed by Sen. Danny Burgess of Zephyrhills and Rep. Patt Maney of Fort Walton Beach. The bill received bipartisan support and was ultimately backed by a $1 million appropriation in 2024. Under this funding, selected 501(c)(3) nonprofit veteran organizations across the state will administer and deliver care directly to eligible veterans in their communities.

“Florida is a leader in being the most Veteran-friendly state in our country, and our goal is to continue addressing ways to improve their quality of life,” said Sen. Danny Burgess. “This program is designed to provide greater services and more benefits to Veterans within their local communities by engaging the organizations who best know their needs.”

Eligibility for the program is determined based on income and military service status. The goal is to ensure that the veterans most in need — including those who may be living on fixed incomes or struggling with long-term health issues — have access to comprehensive dental services.

“Just 15% of Veterans are eligible for dental services through the federal VA. I was honored to sponsor the legislation that created this vital program, which will help meet a critical need beyond the local resources that are available to our state’s Veterans,” said Rep. Patt Maney.

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Supporters of the program have praised it as a forward-thinking solution to a persistent issue that has affected veterans in both rural and urban areas alike.

“This is another example of Florida stepping up to the plate to address a critical gap in services for our Veterans,” said James S. Hartsell, Executive Director of the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs. “It’s no secret that good dental care is vital for both your physical and mental well-being. Thanks to Gov. Ron DeSantis, bill sponsors Sen. Danny Burgess and Rep. Patt Maney, and our legislature, this state-led initiative is another reason Florida remains the most Veteran friendly, appreciated and sought after state in the Nation.”

Veteran-serving nonprofits across Florida are encouraged to take part in the initiative by applying for program grants. The Florida Veterans Foundation has created a dedicated website at www.helpflvets.org/dentalprogram, where organizations can learn more about how to get involved. FVF will also be partnering with veteran service organizations and local leaders to raise awareness and help veterans understand the program and how to apply.

“This program is a lifeline designed to reach those veterans in desperate need of dental care, offering them hope and a path to a better quality of life,” said Paul Kimbel, FVF Lead Dental Analyst. “We look forward to working together with our network of nonprofits to make a positive impact and ensure Florida’s veterans receive the vital care they so rightly deserve.”

The Florida Veterans Foundation sees this initiative not only as a healthcare program but also as a mission to honor the service of those who have worn the uniform. By offering critical dental services, the state is giving back in a meaningful way and strengthening its commitment to its veteran population — one smile at a time.