Thousands of Texas children's healthcare in jeopardy

The Federal Children's Health Insurance Program, or C.H.I.P., has been a resource for many low income families across the nation.

"When C.H.I.P. was created, it was built as a health insurance plan for children whose families make too much to qualify for Medicaid but also the parents dont work in situations where they have employer based insurance," said Mimi Garcia, spokesperson for Texas Association of Community Health Centers.

Congress never renewed the program. Funding expired Sept. 30. The program covers about 9 million kids and pregnant women nationwide, and just over 400,000 in Texas.

In order to delay a nightmare before Christmas, by sending out cancelation letters, the health and human services commission is asking for $90 million to keep the program going at least until February.

"On December 22, just a few days before Christmas, families who rely on C.H.I.P. will be told the coverage will run out at the end of January," said Adrianna Kohler with Texans Care for Children.

The non-profit says the thousands of families who rely on C.H.I.P. can be severely affected financially.

"Families may have to postpone or delay healthcare for their kids, miss doctors appointments. We are concerned about the kid who rely on C.H.I.P. for eyeglasses to see the board at school, asthma medications, treatment and surgeries for cancer," said Kohler.

Across Texas families, and children all are hoping lawmakers can come up with a solution quickly, so this holiday won't be overshadowed by the end of health coverage.

But the ultimate goal for these families, is refunding the program, so it won't run out next year, in the first place. "State leaders and our leaders in Washington need to act before the holidays to get this done," said Kohler.