HOUSTON -- Texas has the highest rate of uninsured children in the nation -- one of five kids do not have health insurance, according to statistics. A new initiative is hoping to change that, KPRC Local 2, Your Education Station, reported Tuesday.

The Houston Independent School District, the Children's Defense Fund, local hospitals and corporate partners are part of the 100 Percent Campaign. The goal is health insurance for all children.

"We know that children who are not healthy do not come to school and children who do not come to school do not learn how to read, do not become educated," said Dr. Abelardo Saavedra, HISD's superintendent.

The kickoff is an effort to educate parents about the enrollment changes to the statewide children's health insurance program or CHIP.

CHIP is a low-cost option for parents who earn too much for Medicaid but not enough for private coverage.

"I struggle every month making ends meet, and without CHIP, I don't know how I would do it," parent Deana Dumas said. "We have been to the point of choosing our children's health or paying household needs."

As of Sept. 1, most children will only have to enroll in CHIP once a year rather than twice a year. And they will no longer have a 90-day waiting period.

"These changes collectively are calculated to result in an increase in enrollment of 127,000 children by the year 2009," said J. Michael Solar, with the CDF Texas advisory board.

To apply for CHIP coverage at the enrollment events listed below, parents need to bring proof of household income along with their child's birth certificate, proof of residency status and Social Security number.

Upcoming Enrollment Events

Saturday, Aug. 25, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.: Citywide enrollment at 10 Houston-area McDonald's restaurants
Saturday, Sept. 8, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.: Citywide enrollment at 15 Fiesta supermarkets

To apply for CHIP or Medicaid, call 877-KIDS-NOW.

Applications can be downloaded at www.CHIPmedicaid.org.