USB Highlights Success of Foundation Grants with this Year’s Application Cycle Now Open
Pictured: Dr. Suher Baker, Brooker Memorial dental director examines a student’s teeth at EdAdvance Head Start preschool in Torrington.
DANBURY, CONN. (March 18, 2026) – (Union Savings Bank (USB) is pleased to highlight the early success of Brooker Memorial’s new dental initiative at the EdAdvance Head Start preschool in Torrington. Following a $2,500 grant awarded by the Union Savings Bank Foundation in 2025, and other donations the permanent dental clinic officially opened its doors this past January. The USB grant specifically funded the educational component of the program to provide vital preventative care and oral health education to local preschoolers.
Now in its third month of operation, the initiative is actively addressing tooth decay —the most common chronic childhood disease—by bringing services directly to children where they learn. The program addresses a significant public health need, as the CDC reports that over half of children (52%) have already experienced a cavity in their primary (baby) teeth by age 8. By providing a dental hygienist to deliver oral health education and hygiene visits throughout the academic year, the program helps children ages 3–4 build lifelong healthy habits.
“Union Savings Bank is proud to see the 2025 grant in action through Brooker Memorial’s innovative approach to early childhood oral health,” said Michele Bonvicini, Executive Director of the Union Savings Bank Foundation. “Providing dental education where children already are—right in their classroom—ensures that every child has the chance to start life with a healthy foundation. We look forward to seeing the positive results and continuing our support of Brooker Memorial.”
According to Christina Emery, Executive Director of Brooker Memorial, the program’s classroom-based model is designed to eliminate significant barriers for underserved families, such as transportation challenges and time away from work. By integrating hygiene and education into the school day, Brooker Memorial ensures care is accessible and aims to make learning about dental health fun and approachable for young children.
“This support from Union Savings Bank and other partners has strengthened our ability to reach children who might otherwise go without essential preventive care and education,” said Emery. “We are already seeing the benefits of helping these students build oral health habits that can reduce preventable pain and health challenges.”
In light of the success of partnerships like the one with Brooker Memorial, Union Savings Bank reminds local organizations that the annual USB Foundation Grants program is currently accepting applications. Area nonprofits focused on education, youth development, and health and wellness are encouraged to apply between March 1, 2026, and April 1, 2026, by visiting https://www.unionsavings.com/community/how-we-give/.
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About the Union Savings Bank Foundation
The Union Savings Bank Foundation, established in 1998, supports nonprofit organizations that educate, enrich, and enhance the communities served by Union Savings Bank. The Foundation provides grants to programs focused on education, youth development, health and wellness, and other community-strengthening initiatives, and has awarded millions in funding across Connecticut since its inception.
About Brooker Memorial
Brooker Memorial, founded in 1918, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preparing children for lifelong success through education, health services, family support, and programs of excellence. Its services include early childhood education, licensed childcare, pediatric dental care, career preparation, and family support programs. The organization has supported families in northwestern Connecticut for more than a century.
Community Relations Contact:
Michele Bonvicini
Union Savings Bank
203.830.6045
mbonvicini@unionsavings.com