Blue KC created The Caring Program for Children program in 1992. The program’s primary purpose is to provide assistance to children 18 years or younger who live in the Blue KC service area. The program helps children when state, federal programs or private insurance does not cover what the child needs. These children typically do not qualify for Medicaid programs and their families cannot afford private health insurance.
The Caring Program for Children is a not-for-profit organization under the sponsorship of Blue KC. The program is primarily funded through donations from Blue KC employees and company fundraisers. Corporate contributions account for additional funding as well.
A Board of Directors with Blue KC employees and community representatives established guidelines for fundraising and distributing funds to those in need. The Caring Program for Children Program Administrator reviews requests daily and may approve requests up to the amount of $500. The Caring Program for Children Advisory Board, which includes representatives from Blue KC, companies in the KC metro area, children’s social service agencies, the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation and Affiliated Trusts, and the Love Fund for Children, reviews any requests over $500 on a monthly basis. The board also has a process in place for emergency responses when you need a decision immediately. All funds are paid directly to the provider of services, not the family of the child in need.
The Caring Program for Children FAQ's:
What kind of assistance does The Caring Program for Children offer?
Each request for assistance is reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Generally, durable medical equipment (including wheelchairs, braces, feeding devices and insulin pumps) and prescription drugs that exceed benefit limits are items The Caring Program for Children approves.
Is my child eligible for assistance from The Caring Program for Children?
Children 18 year or younger who live in the Blue KC service area may be eligible for assistance from The Caring Program for Children.
How do I request assistance from The Caring Program for Children?
To request assistance, complete an application. A third party professional such as a social worker, counselor or teacher must submit the request on behalf of the child. We ask the professional to complete the application after checking to make sure all other resources have been exhausted or eliminated and that the child meets the qualifications for the Caring Program for Children. Please send the completed application with invoice of the product and the tax ID of the manufacturer to:
The Caring Program for Children
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City
Laura Palermo, Community Relations Coordinator
2301 Main Street, Kansas City, MO 64108
You may also fax the completed application to 816-395-2156. Parents who contact The Caring Program for Children directly will be put in contact with an appropriate third party professional for help on request assistance.
Can I make multiple requests?
Yes, you can apply multiple times for an eligible child if continued or new circumstances warrant additional assistance.
How will I know if my request is approved?
Laura Palermo, Community Relations Coordinator will contact you after receiving your request and you will be mailed a verification notification if your request is approved. For requests under $500 of assistance, expect up to two weeks to have your request processed. For requests that are more than $500 of assistance, expect up to four weeks to have your request processed.
For more information on The Caring Program for Children, contact the Blue KC Community Relations Department at 816-395-2792 or email _Community_Relations@BlueKC.com.