For most of us, a smile is an afterthought, a quick curve of the lips in a family photo or a warm greeting to a neighbor. But for a combat veteran hiding behind a pandemic-era mask, a smile was a source of deep shame. For a deploying reservist, a hidden jaw infection was a silent threat that could have derailed his entire future.
In Naples, Dr. Hemita Klose and her husband, Kenneth—a former FBI agent and combat veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan—are changing these stories. Through the Bridge the Gap Initiative, they do much more than fix teeth; they restore dignity and confidence to those who protect our freedoms.
From the Front Lines to the Chair
Hemita’s path to advocacy began working with the Wounded Veterans Relief Fund, where a harsh reality quickly came into focus. "It became clear very quickly that there was a massive, unmet need for comprehensive dental care among our veterans," she says.
The turning point arrived in November 2025, when the Kloses hosted a pro-bono day of service. Partnering with a powerhouse team of local specialists—Westshore Oral Surgery, Naples Periodontics, Endodontic Associates of Naples, and Coastal Anesthesia—they delivered over $196,000 in care to 47 recipients. Every partner freely offered their time and expertise. The overwhelming success inspired the permanent creation of the Bridge the Gap Initiative a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, to serve veterans, reservists, and law enforcement in Collier and Lee County.
Transforming Lives, One Smile at a Time
The true impact is best told through the people served. A veteran who came to them through the Wounded Veterans Relief Fund hated his smile so deeply that he admitted he actually liked the pandemic because a mask let him hide. Needing a full-mouth rehabilitation, he began a months-long journey. As his dental health transformed, his confidence soared, culminating in a proud appearance at the foundation’s grand opening to finally show off his unhidden smile.
Then there is the young reservist who came in for a routine deployment exam, only to discover a terribly infected implant jeopardizing his front teeth. During their day of service, that complex surgery was delivered seamlessly with specialist partner and fellow veteran Dr. Miguel Jusino. He never went without teeth, and six months later, his smile was fully restored to health.
Beyond major rehabilitations, the initiative focuses on prevention, intercepting issues early in younger service members to protect their overall systemic and mental wellness.
Rooted in Naples Generosity
Formed for Collier County's protectors, the initiative is built on hyper-local impact. "Naples is a community defined by its extraordinary generosity," says Dr. Klose. "Ken and I started this to honor that spirit of giving, ensuring we sustain this culture of compassion for our children."
Get Involved & Apply for Care
As a federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit, all contributions are fully tax-deductible:
Become a Sponsor / Donate Auction Items: Local businesses can step up as a Community Sponsor or donate silent auction items for our upcoming event.
Attend the Fundraiser: Join us for an exclusive Brunch & Silent Auction at Sails Restaurant on November 14, 2026.
Apply for Care: Veterans, reservists, and law enforcement in Collier County can apply online.
Connect: Visit bridgethegapinitiative.org or email info@bridgethegapinitiative.org.