The American Dental Association Foundation (ADAF) is officially kicking off Give Kids A Smile ® (GKAS) 2026 at UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry, marking 24 years of transforming children’s lives through this access-to-oral-health-care initiative. What began as a local grassroots movement in St. Louis, MO, has evolved into a national movement, having served more than 10.2 million underserved children since 2003. GKAS begins nationally in February, which is National Children’s Dental Health Month, and events will take place year-round. These essential oral health services are made possible thanks to the tens of thousands of dental professionals who volunteer their time and talent.
A participant receiving a dental exam during the 2025 national kick-off event at Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry.
Source: A Legacy of Brighter Smiles: Celebrating 24 Years of the Give Kids A Smile Program / Times Argus