Over 700 children received comprehensive oral healthcare in Tarapacá
Through an alliance between SQM Iodine Plant Nutrition and Fundación Sonrisas, dental specialists visited schools in the region throughout the year.
In an activity with part of the Chanavayita Primary School community, Fundación Sonrisas and SQM Iodine Plant Nutrition spoke about the progress made by the “Ruta Tarapacá” program, an initiative to improve the oral health of children and adolescents in the Tarapacá Region. Since it was founded in March 2024, “Ruta Tarapacá” has positively impacted over 700 children and their families
This comprehensive children’s oral health initiative covers pre-k to eighth-grade students at eight schools in three different communities: Pozo Almonte, Iquique and Huara. Its main objective is to prevent, treat and educate students, parents and educators about oral diseases. The foundation’s team of three dentists traveled for 10 months with portable equipment and educational materials to offer personalized dental care and educational workshops at the schools.
The foundation’s executive director, Raúl Valdivia, highlighted the importance of the support received: “The commitment of SQM Iodine Plant Nutrition as a donor has been fundamental to the success of ‘Ruta Tarapacá’. Thanks to this partnership, we have brought smiles to the communities that need them most, transforming lives by improving the health and wellbeing of hundreds of children and their families.”
Gary Mérida, Head of Community Relations for SQM Iodine Plant Nutrition, highlighted these efforts, commenting, “With this partnership, we are addressing something fundamental for people’s happiness and development—their smile. When we see a big smile on the children’s faces, that’s priceless. It’s important work that we are very proud of as a company.”
The program focuses not only on clinical care but also on education and prevention. Each child receives a dental hygiene kit, and educational workshops are held for students, teachers and parents. In addition, graduation ceremonies are held to recognize student participation and effort.
Fundación Sonrisas and SQM Iodine Plant Nutrition continue working together to ensure that more children in Tarapacá have access to optimal oral health. This joint effort reflects both organizations’ commitment to local community development and wellbeing.
