The Horry-Georgetown Technical College Foundation is proud to announce it has received a grant from the BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina Foundation to expand access to dental health education, treatment, and resources for underserved populations across South Carolina.
This two-year grant will support HGTC’s Oral Health Regional Collaborative Network, a coordinated initiative focused on strengthening partnerships among dental providers, educators, and community agencies to improve oral health outcomes throughout the region.
“This investment significantly strengthens our ability to expand access to high-quality dental education and services throughout our region,” said Dr. Marilyn “Murph” Fore, president of Horry-Georgetown Technical College. “Through the Oral Health Regional Collaborative Network, we will be able to provide greater education, outreach, and coordinated care to underserved populations while preparing the next generation of dental professionals.”
Through this collaborative effort, HGTC will work alongside healthcare and community partners to increase access to oral health education, expand preventive care outreach, and strengthen connections to essential dental services. The initiative reflects HGTC’s continued commitment to addressing critical healthcare and workforce needs across Horry and Georgetown counties and beyond.
As part of the grant, HGTC will also participate in statewide and regional collaborative meetings and deliver oral health education in partnership with a Clemson Health Extension Agent, further extending the reach and impact of this work across South Carolina.
Oral health plays a vital role in overall health and well-being. By expanding preventive education and increasing access to dental resources, this initiative will help improve quality of life, reduce long-term healthcare costs, and create healthier communities.
“The Foundation continues to demonstrate meaningful leadership in advancing community health,” said Shannon Detzler, president and CEO of the Horry-Georgetown Technical College Foundation. “We are grateful for this partnership and for the Foundation’s commitment to improving access to essential oral healthcare services throughout South Carolina.”