A staggering 25% of people in Windsor-Essex don't have basic dental coverage and the Downtown Mission wants to lower that number.
The mission will open a "pay what you can clinic" where a $200 procedure could cost as little as $20 or nothing at all. Many area contractors contributed work on the $500,000 project at a reduced rate to complete the clinic, lab and two onsite x-ray machines — all paid for as part of a $1-million donation by Al Quesnel.
Executive Director Ron Dunn tells CTV News the Al Quesnel Community Dental Centre will be unique to the region.
"The first of its kind for Windsor and Essex County," he says. "It's really designed, for people that can pay a little bit, to pay for the people who can't afford anything."
Joanne, who preferred not to give her, last night, says it's more than just a dental office for the homeless.
"I'll pay based on what my income is and what my ability to pay is," she says. "People need to be more aware of that the downtown mission is more than just helping the homeless, we're helping the whole community."
Joanne says many of her clients are the working poor and nice clean smile could help them towards a better paying job.
"If you're not confident in the way you look and going out on an interview, you won't present yourself well and you won't be able to get a job," she adds
Dunn says it's all brand new and top of the line equipment and they've assembled a professional team of dental hygienists.
The clinic — located at 875 Ouellette Ave. — will be ready to book appointments Tuesday.
— with files from CTV News Windsor.