Both Florida and the city of Jacksonville have some of the highest rates of uninsured kids in the nation, even though many may be eligible for low-cost health insurance. A new initiative was launched to increase the capacity of the community to link those kids with the state children’s health insurance program.

Jacksonville was selected by the National League of Cities to help reduce the number of uninsured kids in the city — estimated to be about 16,000. The City of Jacksonville and Jacksonville Children’s Commission are leading the effort in conjunction with numerous community partners.

Florida KidCare is available for uninsured youth up to age 19 whose families make up to 200 percent of the Federal Poverty level, approximately $45,000 for a family of four. Most families pay $15 or $20 a month, while some do not pay at all.

Enrollment is year-round. Coverage is comprehensive and includes dental and vision.

For assistance with applying, families can call 2-1-1 to talk to a Cover Jacksonville operator.