Free Clinic in Viterbo Expands to Offer Dental Care

Volunteer Doctors Bring Smiles to Viterbo with Free Dental Care

Viterbo, Italy – A group of dedicated volunteer doctors and nurses in Viterbo are expanding their free clinic, “Gente di Cuore” (People with Heart), to include much-needed dental care for those who can’t afford it.”with an investment of €11,000,” explains Dr. Sandro Marenzoni, a pediatric cardiologist and founder of the association, “we purchased a state-of-the-art dental chair and equipment.”

Gente di Cuore has been a lifeline for the community since 2016, providing vital healthcare services to those in need. “Here, we continue to offer free cardiology, endocrinology, ophthalmology, orthopedics, and psychiatry visits,” says Marenzoni. “We also perform diagnostic tests like ultrasounds,electrocardiograms,and echocardiograms,and dispense essential medications not covered by the Lazio regional health service.”

A chart proudly displayed in the clinic showcases the impact of their work: nearly 1,000 treatments were provided in 2024, with €5,000 spent on free medication for those in need. Now, facing the growing need for affordable dental care, Gente di Cuore is extending its services to include oral health.

“Everything is wholly free,” emphasizes marenzoni, who tirelessly seeks funding and support. “Of the €11,000 spent on the dental chair, €8,000 came from the Carivit Foundation. The rest, as we’ve done in the past, will come from our own pockets.”

Through their dedication and hard work, the volunteers of Gente di Cuore are not only providing essential medical care but also restoring smiles to those who couldn’t otherwise afford it.

“We are the poorest among the poor,” Marenzoni repeats, “and we hope that other healthcare professionals will join us in meeting the growing healthcare needs of those who struggle to make ends meet.”

A Beacon of Hope

The expansion of Gente di Cuore’s services is a testament to the power of community and compassion. In a world where healthcare costs can be prohibitive, these volunteers are ensuring that everyone has access to the care they need, regardless of their financial situation. Their story is a reminder that even small acts of kindness can make a world of difference.

Bringing Smiles Back: A Chat About Viterbo’s Volunteer Dental Clinic

sofia: did you hear about the amazing thing happening in Viterbo?

Marco: no, what’s up?

Sofia: There’s this astonishing group of volunteer doctors and nurses who run a free clinic called “Gente di Cuore,” which means “People with Heart.” They’ve been providing free healthcare to people who can’t afford it since 2016, and now they’re adding dental care to their services!

Marco: Wow, that’s incredible! What kind of care do they offer?

Sofia: They’ve been offering everything from cardiology and endocrinology to ophthalmology and psychiatry. They even do diagnostic tests and give out essential medications.

Marco: That’s so generous! But how can they afford to do all that for free?

Sofia: Apparently, they’ve been fundraising and getting support from organizations like the Carivit Foundation. They just invested €11,000 in a new dental chair and equipment.

Marco: €11,000 is a lot of money. I imagine they must have had to raise a lot of funds.

Sofia: They did! The Carivit Foundation donated €8,000, and the rest came from the volunteers themselves.

Marco: It’s amazing how dedicated they are.What made them decide to add dental care?

Sofia: there was a growing need for affordable dental care in the community. The founder, Dr. Sandro Marenzoni, said they are trying to meet the needs of “the poorest among the poor.”

Marco: It’s inspiring to see people step up and help others in such a tangible way.

Sofia: I know, right? It just goes to show that even in these tough times, there are people who are making a real difference. I hope their story inspires others to get involved and help those in need.