Ohio Children Will Raise their Voices for Health Care Changes
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July 13, 2009
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Hundreds of small voices will be raised outside the Ohio Statehouse today to draw attention to the need for comprehensive health coverage for all children in America. Youth from across the state are taking part in the Children's Defense Fund Freedom Schools "National Day of Social Action." An event will be held at noon on the West Plaza of the Statehouse.
Event spokeswoman Sonja Shute says there is a health crisis in this country, and these children are taking a stand.
"Forty-six million people have no health insurance. Nine million of them are children. And millions more children are under-insured (they don't have coverage for the medical services they really need). We must take this step forward for children, because if we improve the lives of children we improve the lives of all of us."
Those involved in today's event are suggesting changes to the federal Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) that would make benefits comprehensive and the system simple and seamless, so all children would have access to coverage. The Children's Defense Fund also is suggesting the establishment of a national eligibility floor of 300 percent of the federal poverty level. Critics opposing the changes say the cost will lead to higher taxes and larger deficits.
The Children's Defense Fund Freedom Schools provide after-school and summer enrichment programs for more than 10,000 children nationally.
Executive director of the Children's Defense Fund Freedom Schools program in Toledo, Tracee Perryman Stewart, says it is important to get children involved in social issues, such as health care, so they learn about the world around them.
"If we plant the seeds now, when they grow up and they become leaders they will have those principles in mind as they make decisions. It's all about developing them for tomorrow."
In addition to Toledo, Freedom School sites serve children in Columbus, Cleveland and Dayton.