Tom Lane, former Navy chaplain, pastor and successful businessman, searched for a meaningful way to “give back” by helping people smile again. In 2009, Tom and Chrissie Lane launched SmileFaith Foundation to bless under-served individuals in need of charitable dental care and Christian inspiration. Although many Veterans can receive medical treatment at Veterans hospitals and facilities around the country, most have no access to low or no cost VA dental services. SmileFaith helps to fill that void, offering a quality dental care program through Veterans Dental Solutions of Tampa Bay. Veterans with proof of service may receive affordable exams, X-Rays, cleanings, extractions and fillings. In addition, some Veterans may qualify for free dental implants upon special assessment.

In a recent telephone interview, Dr. Michael O’Carroll (“Dr. Mike”), SmileFaith Vice President of Operations, shared a heartfelt story indicative of Tom Lane and his wife’s early ministry, demonstrating their willingness to help others. Over 12 years ago, Ace Opportunities, a local “transitional facility”, asked Tom if he could help one of their new residents named “Rosemarie”. She had recently completed the Pasco County Drug Court Program, emerging from a life filled with addictions and homelessness. Together, Tom and his team gave Rosemarie the opportunity of a wonderful, new life… repairing years of dental neglect with a beautiful new smile, and restoring hope and renewed self-esteem through mentoring and discipleship. Today, that same young woman is an integral part of SmileFaith Foundation, working tirelessly with the less fortunate. The SmileFaith Hope With Every Smile program reaches out to survivors of Human Trafficking and Domestic Violence, helping each one with beautiful new smile makeovers and valuable life coaching.

SmileFaith’s mission statement reads: “SmileFaith Foundation has been providing HOPE WITH EVERY SMILE since its beginning in 2009. As a faith-based 501c3 nonprofit, SmileFaith brings charitable dental care and life-changing resources to under-served Veterans, disadvantaged residents of the Appalachian Mountains, and survivors of Human Trafficking and Domestic Violence.” With almost 30 million dollars of charitable services already provided to date, SmileFaith’s outreach programs are designed to meet different community dental and social needs. Since its humble beginnings, SmileFaith has grown to encompass many new programs to assist various populations.