Partnering for Global Impact-Diamond Smiles Edinburgh, Scotland
Collaboration amplifies our mission. Discover how partnerships with local organizations help us reach more people in need.
Read MorePartnering for Global Impact-Mexico
Every smile tells a story. For many in underserved communities, access to basic dental care can mean the difference between confidence and isolation, health and illness.
Understanding the Impact
Starfish Ministry of Texas-Mexico
Starfish Ministry of Texas is a group of mission-minded individuals who want to introduce others to mission work through medical and dental experiences with those in need, always remembering that we can make a difference one person, one experience at a time. Starfish Ministry has dedicated themselves to regular mission trips focused on medical and dental care serving at VidaLife and surrounding communities for over 20 years. In 2018, Starfish took a dental/medical team to the Yucatan for the first time to provide care. The organization returned in 2023 and made a commitment to continuing to partner with VidaLife to serve their needs and provide dental/medical services to their communities.
VidaLife encompasses many surrounding communities including Milagro, Esfuerzo, Francisco May and Rancho Viejo, some of which they have been blessed to serve. Cuna Maya is another community they have served at with Youth With A Mission (YWAM).
Hope Smiles Together connected with Starfish Ministry through a dental hygienist in our dental network. Her desire to serve those in need inspired me to support her and her dental team any way possible. Hope Smiles Together was happy to send toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss with her on her trip.
Here is my interview with Gina Castillo, Dental hygienist volunteer:
- Where were you in Mexico? How long were you there? Cancun, Mexico. We were there eight days, April 10-18.
- What services did the clinic provide? What type of healthcare people were there? In the clinic, dental and medical services were provided. Volunteers ranged from hygienist, dental assistants, dentists, and registered nurses.
- Where and when is the next trip planned for Starfish Ministry? Cusco, Peru October 8-18, 2026
Stories from the Field
“The people were very welcoming and thankful for our help.” – Gina Castillo, Dental Hygienist Volunteer
– Garrett
How You Can Help
- Donate Supplies: New, travel-size dental supplies can be dropped off at our collection location.
- Financial Support: Monetary donations help us purchase supplies in bulk.
- Volunteer: Join us in organizing supply drives.
- Spread the Word: Share our mission with your network.
