Keeping Kids Healthy
The recession has forced families to make the difficult choice of going without health insurance during these tough economic times. And in our own backyard, many Collin County families are facing this dilemma.
It is estimated that over 50,000 children are uninsured in Collin County. A staggering statistic that is mirrored throughout the state. Many of these children are eligible for the state's Children Health Insurance Program (CHIP) or Medicaid, but are unaware they could qualify for these programs.
For as little as $50 a year, families could receive the health care that their children need to grow up to be healthy and strong. Medical, dental, vision...benefits that are all essential for the healthy development of our youngest residents.
As we face an increase in uninsured children, we need your help to promote awareness of these important programs to the families in Collin County and to our Texas representatives.
How can you help?
1) Become an advocate. Talk to your elected officials about the importance of keeping state funded health insurance for our most valuable resources...our children.
2) Support local outreach events. There are several organizations in the area that coordinate outreach events targeted to inform families regarding CHIP and Medicaid and to assist them with the application process. This February 27th, the Dallas Area CHIP Coalition will conduct an outreach event covering nine Fiesta Mart stores in the Dallas area, including one in Collin County. Volunteers are always needed and welcomed.
3) Support our local non-profits. There are several clinics in the area (Plano Children's Medical Clinic, Frisco Cares Children Clinic, and Community Health Center of McKinney to name a few), have been established to assist families and their children that would normally "fall through the gap." Those children that may not qualify for programs, but still need access to health care. Your time, money and services are all welcomed and needed at these local non-profits.
Just one simple step and one step closer to ensuring children can grow up to be healthy and strong.
