A new smile
As a young person experiencing homelessness, James* walked nervously into YSM’s Evergreen Health Centre for the first time.
He came at the urging of his girlfriend, who had noticed his declining dental health. James hadn’t seen a dentist in years, and his mouth was riddled with cavities and other issues, but he had not been able to afford dental care for a long while. Feeling deeply self-conscious about his teeth, James stopped smiling.
At our Health Centre, which offers free health and wellness support services to youth between the ages of 16 and 29, the attending dentist carefully examined James. The dentist confirmed it would be a long process, but if James was willing, together they could create a comprehensive plan to restore his smile.
As each visit to the Health Centre brought noticeable improvements, James’s confidence grew. Now, at age 25, he can’t stop beaming a bright, healthy smile, and expressing his thanks to the medical professionals who volunteered their time and expertise to make his transformation possible.
We are so deeply grateful to our inspiring medical volunteers, who offer valuable services for the well-being of youth who need help. To every medical professional who has volunteered time at YSM, your impact is deep and lasting, and you are truly appreciated.
Our Health Centre is currently seeking medical and dental volunteers! Learn more at ysm.ca/health-centre-volunteers or email volunteer@ysm.ca.
*Community member’s name and image have been changed to protect their privacy. This story originally appeared in the fall 2025 issue of YSM’s quarterly newsletter Urban Lights.