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Religious Coalition Applauds Expansion of Kids Healthcare Program

February 5, 2009

Statement of Reverend Dr. Carlton W. Veazey, President and CEO

We believe that the health of our nation’s children is precious. With President Obama’s signature, the nation’s healthcare program for low-income children has been reauthorized and expanded to serve four million additional children, including children of legal immigrants and pregnant women.

In our fragile economy, more parents are faced with losing healthcare for their children. Now that the expansion of the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) has become law, 11 million children will receive the checkups and vaccinations they need to stay strong, safe, and healthy.

Many religious Americans believe we have a moral responsibility to ensure that all children have proper nutrition, healthcare, housing, and education. The expansion of SCHIP is a step toward a world where families have the support they need to care for their children. We pray that it is just one step of many toward public policies that ensure the medical, economic, and educational resources necessary for healthy families and communities.