OPA-LOCKA, FL - Christ Fellowship Church, through its Caring for Miami initiative, announces the launch of free dental services at UHI CommunityCare Clinic, marking a historic interfaith partnership that brings comprehensive dental care to one of Miami-Dade County's most underserved communities.
For the first time since its opening in 2008, patients at the nonprofit UHI CommunityCare Clinic can now access consistent, comprehensive dental care—from routine cleanings to cancer screenings and root canals—completely free of charge. The mobile dental clinic, operated by Caring for Miami, will provide services to uninsured and low-income patients every Thursday at the clinic's Opa-locka location.
The partnership represents a powerful example of faith communities working together to serve those in need. UHI CommunityCare Clinic was founded and continues to be supported and led by South Florida's Muslim community, while Caring for Miami is an outreach initiative of Christ Fellowship Church. Together, they are addressing critical healthcare gaps in a community designated as both a "food desert" and a "high-risk city" from a health perspective.
"It's beautiful to see different denominations of faith working together for a common cause," said Ashley Giritli, CEO and Executive Director of Caring for Miami. "This initiative aligns with Christ Fellowship's mission to bring care to the community. We'll always offer prayer—we don't force it—but there's a lot of people in our community that have really, really big needs, that are struggling, that are lonely, and welcome us to pray for them."
Addressing Critical Health Needs
Dental care is an essential but often overlooked component of overall health. According to Dr. Kate Semidey, a pediatric doctor at UHI, oral health has neurocognitive connections and can aid in early detection of issues like dementia in the elderly and cardiovascular diseases.
"Dental care is extremely important for your overall health," Dr. Semidey said. "I was dancing in that conference room when we finally made this agreement for them to start coming on Thursdays. It's absolutely incredible. To have this opportunity for our patients is huge."
Leaders from Jackson Hospital and Baptist Health Systems, who attended the mobile clinic's opening day, praised the partnership's impact on community health. Javier Gutierrez, senior director of the physician services department at Jackson Health Systems, noted, "It's a great resource to the community. They should be applauded for the work they're doing."
The mobile dental clinic provides a full range of services, including:
Routine dental cleanings
Comprehensive dental examinations
Oral cancer screenings
Root canals
Other essential dental procedures
Schedule: Every Thursday at UHI CommunityCare Clinic
Location: 870 Fisherman Street, Opa-locka, FL
Eligibility: Available to uninsured and low-income patients
The health and dental services are available to anyone, regardless of faith background. Caring for Miami also offers prayer with clients who wish to receive it and welcomes community members to the church for fellowship and support.
About UHI CommunityCare Clinic
Founded in 2008 and relocated to Opa-locka in 2024, UHI CommunityCare Clinic is a nonprofit healthcare facility founded, supported, and led by South Florida's Muslim community. The clinic partners with Florida International University's medical school to provide student doctors and faculty, offering a comprehensive array of services—from eye exams to children's vaccines—all free of charge to those without insurance. The clinic is open to anyone in need, regardless of faith background.
About Caring for Miami
Caring for Miami is an initiative of Christ Fellowship Church dedicated to bringing practical care and hope to Miami-Dade communities through healthcare services, prayer support, and community engagement. The mobile dental clinic represents Christ Fellowship's commitment to serving those in greatest need while building bridges across diverse communities.
About Christ Fellowship Miami
Christ Fellowship Miami is a dynamic, multi-campus church dedicated to making a difference in the community by helping people know and follow Jesus. With a focus on worship, service, and connection, Christ Fellowship welcomes everyone to experience God’s love and grow in faith.
