But what is often overlooked is that there are whole pockets being left behind. Working Partnerships estimates that about 14 percent of children in San Jose are uninsured. In San Jose, like much of California, low-income groups are made up of large numbers of immigrants who are often fearful of dealing with the state, or simply need help navigating the paperwork requirements and language challenges of the application process. The San Jose funds would be used partly in an outreach program to sign up those children who qualify, as well as to pay premiums for children of low-income families who cannot afford private insurance but don't qualify for state aid. Many of the working poor here are above the national poverty line, but struggle to make ends meet in an area with sky-high housing costs.
Educators are particularly enthusiastic about the plan.
A number of school superintendents have publicly endorsed the initiative, citing the link between the health of children and their performance in school. Before bookmarking this page in your browser, click here . We offer them for your additional research. The Christian Science Publishing Society. All rights reserved.