Amid a new world order that demands social distancing, Texas Children’s Health Plan has come up with creative ways to meet the needs of the community.
Partnership with Aldine Independent School District
The health plan has now joined forces with Aldine ISD to host community drive-through events, thanks to the leadership of Jermaine Monroe, vice president for Human Resources. Monroe spearheaded a partnership between the health plan and the district last year, which is now paying off in a new way.
Twice each week, families are able to pick up meals for their children at the district’s high schools, while also receiving information on our insurance program.
Isela Garcia, community marketing specialist who works with the district on the weekly events, says that families are grateful. “It is an incredibly safe way to meet several goals,” said Garcia. “Families can pick up student meals and receive information about application assistance and other services.”
Harris County Precinct 2 partnership
In addition to our partnership with Aldine ISD, the health plan has also partnered with Harris County Precinct 2 Commissioner Adrian Garcia. Precinct 2 has the highest number of uninsured children in the county.
In an effort to help local small businesses, every Friday for the last few months Commissioner Garcia tasked his team to partner with several area restaurants to provide drive-through “Hot Meal Fridays” at several community centers. This is just one of many programs Commissioner Garcia initiated as part of Precinct’s COVID 19 response efforts. “Hot Meals Fridays” provide a nutritious meal for the entire family by serving everyone in the vehicle. With the involvement of Texas Children’s Health Plan these families also receive much needed health insurance information.
“As commissioner for one of the most medically underserved areas in Harris County, I made improving our public health care system and improving access for those in my precinct a major priority, and this partnership is critical to making those improvements happen. This partnership with a premier partner like the Texas Children’s Health Plan helps in ensuring that no one is left behind – especially our children. I’m grateful to the health plan team for stepping up for our community during this difficult time,” Commissioner Garcia said. “The health plan understands the importance of feeding children and families while also providing for their health care needs.”
Application assistance
“The needs of our target population are significant — now, more than ever — and we are blessed that we’ve been able to continue meeting these needs, while maintaining social distancing so that everyone can stay safe,” said Claudia Garcia, marketing manager for the health plan.
However, the events are just the first step. Garcia says that assisting new members with their applications once they reach out is just as important; and her team is completing this process with flying colors. Just recently, 49 applications were completed within one week.
If you know of anyone who may want more information about Texas Children’s Health Plan or may need assistance with their application, visit texaschildrenshealthplan.org.