River Cities United Way has been working with local Girl Scout Troop No. 415 to prepare Happy Healthy Smiles bags for 50 kindergarten classrooms signed up for the 2022-23 school year. The classrooms span the counties of La Paz and Mohave, as well as the Needles, Calif., area schools.

Photo Courtesy Girl Scout Troop 415

Nine girls and two troop leaders prepared more than 1,000 bags for students to participate in the program for the spring semester. The Girl Scouts have been participating for more than seven years to prepare the smile bags for others. Many of the girls shared their memories of once participating in the program as kindergarteners themselves. They were honored to help support the program and preparation of supplies that will be shared with others.

Photo Courtesy Girl Scout Troop 415

Through teamwork and dedication to the Happy Healthy Smiles program each year, more than 7,000 students have benefited and learned about the importance proper care and good oral hygiene.

The overall goal of the program is to reduce the tooth decay rate in local counties as well as provide resources and education to help better support area residents.

Photo Courtesy Girl Scout Troop 415