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HGTC Foundation Receives Grant from BlueCross® BlueShield® of South Carolina Foundation
to Expand Oral Health Access
The Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) Foundation has received a grant from the BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina Foundation, an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, to expand access to dental health education, treatment and resources for underserved populations across South Carolina.
The two-year grant will support HGTC’s Oral Health Regional Collaborative Network, a coordinated effort designed to strengthen partnerships among dental providers, educators and community agencies to improve oral health outcomes.
“This investment significantly strengthens our ability to expand access to high-quality dental education and services throughout our region,” said Dr. Marilyn “Murph” Fore, president of Horry-Georgetown Technical College. “Through the Oral Health Regional Collaborative Network, we will be able to provide greater education, outreach, and coordinated care to underserved populations while preparing the next generation of dental professionals.”
As part of the grant requirements, HGTC will participate in statewide and regional collaborative meetings and deliver oral health education in partnership with a Clemson Health Extension Agent. The project aligns with HGTC’s mission to address critical workforce and healthcare needs across Horry and Georgetown counties and beyond.
Oral health is closely connected to overall health and well-being. Expanding preventive education and increasing access to dental resources helps reduce long-term healthcare costs and improves quality of life for individuals and families.
“The Foundation continues to demonstrate meaningful leadership in advancing community health,” said Shannon Detzler, president and CEO of the HGTC Foundation. “We are grateful for this partnership and the Foundation’s commitment to improving access to essential oral healthcare services throughout South Carolina.”
The purpose of the HGTC Foundation is to raise funds to support the programs, services, and activities of Horry-Georgetown Technical College, its students and employees, and to create and strengthen positive relations between the College and the community.