ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA – A groundbreaking collaborative effort between the Sandals Foundation and the Ministry of Health is set to deliver transformative dental care to the nation through the historic ‘1000 Smiles’ dental clinic. This initiative marks the first time the extensive program, organized by international nonprofit Great Shape! Inc., will be operational in Antigua and Barbuda, significantly expanding its regional healthcare mission.
The partnership was formally solidified during a strategic planning session held at Sandals Grande Antigua Resort and Spa on January 13, 2026. The meeting convened key stakeholders including Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph, health ministry officials, Great Shape! Inc. leadership, and Sandals Foundation representatives to coordinate this comprehensive oral healthcare initiative.
According to Great Shape! Inc. Program Director Shantelle Senior-Clarke, the clinical team will provide critically needed dental services including examinations, professional cleanings, extractions, root canals, and various other treatments based on individual assessments. She commended the Ministry of Health for its exceptional logistical support and hands-on leadership in facilitating the clinic’s operations.
Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph expressed profound appreciation for the partnership, emphasizing his enthusiasm for welcoming Great Shape! Inc. to Antigua and Barbuda and his anticipation of continued collaboration on community health advancement.
The Sandals Foundation, through its Executive Director Heidi Clarke, reaffirmed its longstanding commitment to Caribbean healthcare initiatives, stating: “We fundamentally believe that access to quality oral healthcare is paramount to the overall wellbeing of families and community health. We are committed to leveraging our network of resources to bring this essential service to as many residents as possible.”
The foundation’s support encompasses comprehensive logistical assistance, accommodation provisions, community coordination, and volunteer engagement. This infrastructure will enable hundreds, potentially thousands, of vulnerable residents—particularly children, seniors, and underserved community members—to receive high-quality dental care that would otherwise be inaccessible.
David Latchimy, Sandals General Manager, articulated the resort’s philosophy: “True hospitality extends beyond our resorts and into the communities we serve. Supporting free community dental services aligns perfectly with our core values of caring for people, empowering communities, and creating lasting positive change.”
The clinic will operate from January 19 to January 30 at the Multipurpose Cultural Center, with hours from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Pre-registration is currently available at multiple polyclinics and health centers including Villa, Glanvilles, Gray’s Farm, Clare Hall, Liberta, and Johnson’s Point facilities. Community members are strongly encouraged to utilize these complimentary dental services.