#USA #Sarasota #Feeding America #Dental Care Alliance #Care & Share

Dental Care Alliance's Holiday Giving: A Community Triumph

The Dental Care Alliance (DCA) has recently concluded its second annual Care & Share Holiday Food Drive, showcasing a resounding success that supported 41 communities across the nation. This year, the initiative, which ran from November 1 to 21, saw DCA and its partners come together to collect more than 7,000 food items, spreading joy and nourishment during the holiday season.

DCA's Care & Share Food Drive is an integral part of its mission of fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Led by the DEI Council, this community initiative brought together staff, patients, and local organizations to make a positive impact on families in need. The endeavor exceeded all expectations and reaffirmed DCA’s commitment to uplifting the lives of those they serve.

Cad Shannon, the Co-Chair of the DEI Council, emphasized the significance of collective giving, stating, “Acts of giving are powerful, but when we unite to give together, it becomes transformative. This food drive exemplifies what true inclusion looks like—everyone contributing so that everyone can thrive.” In a year when many families struggle more than ever, this initiative reminded everyone that even small acts of kindness can lead to significant change.

A Closer Look at the Success

The 2025 Care & Share Holiday Food Drive included several noteworthy highlights:

• - 7,000 Food Items Donated: Food items collected helped nourish families in 41 different communities, fostering a sense of support and goodwill during the holidays.
• - Local Volunteer Efforts: Members from DCA-supported practices organized the collection and delivery of food items to local organizations, showcasing a spirit of camaraderie and teamwork.
• - Collaborative Community Partnerships: DCA established partnerships with 43 local organizations focused on providing food assistance to underserved populations, emphasizing DCA's dedication to community service.
• - Hours of Volunteer Services: Team members collectively dedicated over 60 hours to this cause, highlighting the staff's commitment and willingness to give back.

In addition to the food donations, DCA made a financial contribution to the Feeding America Food Bank of Northwestern Indiana. This monetary support enhances DCA’s initiatives and reinforces the organization's core belief in serving first and improving the lives of individuals in the community.

Larry Benz, DCA’s CEO, expressed pride in the collective efforts of the team: “The ability to give back is an honor, but what moves me most is the collective generosity of our team. Their commitment to serving others makes me proud to represent DCA. Sharing the holidays with family is a blessing, and using that time to make a difference for others makes the season even brighter.”

Looking to the Future

The momentum from this year’s holiday food drive is just the beginning. DCA and its DEI Council are determined to expand their charitable efforts, forming partnerships with local organizations to support not only food access but also dental care and other essential needs in underserved communities throughout the year.

About Feeding America: This essential organization works tirelessly to combat hunger in America, providing millions in need with food and resources to thrive. Their network includes food banks, pantries, and meal programs unified in ending hunger across the nation.

About Dental Care Alliance: Founded with the aim of advancing dentistry, DCA collaborates with over 400 different practices and more than 900 dental professionals across 24 states. Committed to delivering quality dental care, they operate under a multitude of brand names reflecting their diverse approach to patient care. For more information, visit Dental Care Alliance.