This doctor evidently does NOT normally do something like this. When I called about the appointment and told them about my situation, they seemed pretty sure that the dentist *requires* payment, and they felt so bad. So I went in there today expecting to pay half the cost right away for just a quick consult, and find that the office staff is paying for everything! This is just so amazing! The one assistant and her husband, she said, volunteer and go to church at one of the winter shelter sites. It's one that I have never been to, as I always went to a different site on that night of the week. Anyway, people from this church are known among the homeless to be especially generous, and very Christian. Now I experience it. She is offering to help with more if I ever need, too.