In partnership with the Ohio Department of Health (ODH), the Charitable Healthcare Network (CHN) is pleased to announce Daniel Stowe, DDS, as the 2024 Free Clinic Dentist of the Year award winner. Dr. Stowe has been instrumental in transforming lives through his role at Stowe Mission Dental in Columbus, Ohio.
“Dr. Stowe’s commitment to serving Ohio’s most vulnerable populations is extraordinary. His leadership, passion, and dedication to teaching have shaped the future of dental care at Stowe Mission Dental and beyond,” reads the nomination for this award.
Dr. Stowe’s journey of service began in the 1980s when he started treating unhoused individuals at a soup kitchen. Since then, he has led the charge at Stowe Mission Dental, where he has provided free dental care to over 30,000 patients. His efforts have also fostered impactful partnerships with The Ohio State University College of Dentistry and Columbus State Community College’s Dental Hygiene Program. These collaborations have enabled the clinic to become a hub for patient care and a teaching ground for future dental providers.
Beyond patient care, Dr. Stowe has played a pivotal role in upgrading the clinic’s equipment and infrastructure. His advocacy and relationships with vendors have resulted in acquiring new dental chairs and facility renovations, significantly enhancing patient experiences. His work exemplifies CHN’s mission of ensuring high-quality healthcare for Ohio’s underserved populations.
Stowe Mission Dental, part of Stowe Mission of Central Ohio, offers a range of services, including medical care, pregnancy support, and over 250,000 meals annually. The clinic embodies the spirit of holistic care, addressing the needs of the homeless and working poor in Columbus. For more information about Stowe Mission Dental, visit stowemission.org.
As part of Free Clinic Appreciation Month (FCAM), the Charitable Healthcare Network and the Ohio Department of Health recognize the accomplishments of Ohio's free clinics through annual Free Clinic Award presentations. FCAM was established in 2013 by the Ohio Legislature through H.B. 320 to honor and raise awareness about the vital role free clinics play in delivering essential healthcare to Ohio’s most vulnerable populations.
This year’s award recipients will be celebrated at the 2025 Charitable Healthcare Network Safety-Net Symposium, held on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, in Columbus. This annual event brings together healthcare leaders, policymakers, and community partners to recognize the impact of free and charitable clinics in strengthening Ohio’s healthcare safety net, fostering equity, and delivering high-quality care to underserved populations.
More information about FCAM, CHN and the upcoming symposium can be found at charitablehealthcarenetwork.org.
