On May 2nd, Jefferson Community Center Park was filled with bubbles, laughter, and bright smiles during the first-ever Blooming Smiles Festival—a vibrant celebration of oral health for children ages 0–6. Families arrived ready for fun and left with resources, connections, and in many cases, their child’s very first dental visit! The Open Door Dental Van provided dental wellness exams and KOHA screenings for 29 children, referring 9 for follow-up care. Children without a dental home had the option to enroll with Open Door, while families without insurance were referred for support in finding coverage. Services were available in English and Spanish, and both Medi-Cal and private insurance were accepted—making care more accessible.
Jefferson Community Center was the perfect place to host this joyful event. As a centrally located Family Resource Center, it offered a warm, familiar space where families felt welcome. Children enjoyed the beautiful park and playground, while the open layout created an inviting, community-centered atmosphere. We’re especially grateful to the Jefferson staff for their hospitality and for being such an important gathering place for local families.
Throughout the park, children brushed oversized tooth models with shaving cream, pedaled the smoothie bike (courtesy of DHHS’ Physical Activity and Nutrition Program), created art, chased bubbles, and played lawn games. Families visited booths hosted by First 5 Humboldt, Smile Humboldt, SafeCare, CalFresh, Food for People, the Parent Nutrition Center, and the Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program—each offering helpful tools and tips for supporting young children’s health. Thank you to the Discovery Museum for lending their ever-popular tooth stools, and to Ana Guerrero-González from First5 Humboldt for making the day extra magical as the Tooth Fairy!
As families completed their dental visits, several families shared how much they enjoyed the dental fair and asked if Blooming Smiles would be back in time for their next dental visit. That kind of enthusiasm says it all—and made all the planning, effort, and teamwork feel truly rewarding.
Blooming Smiles is part of the 2025 First 5 Humboldt Symposium Series—a series designed to build community and support the well-being of families, along with the professionals who serve them. More events are coming soon—scroll down to learn about the upcoming Community Baby Shower!