Undocumented children across the Valley are now eligible for health care

TULARE, Calif. (KFSN) -- As of Monday, 185,000 undocumented children under the age of 19 will be eligible for full-scope Medi-Cal benefits. That's according to the California Immigrant Policy Center.

In Tulare County, 3,000 children will begin the transition from restricted benefits to full scope.

"And that includes vision, dental, mental health services, as well as alcohol and drug treatment services," said TulareWORKS Interim Director Vienna Barnes.

Under restricted benefits before, Barnes says many undocumented children would only go to the emergency room or not see a doctor at all.

But under State Senate Bill 75, these children are entitled to free or low-cost health coverage no matter their immigration status-and that information will be kept private.

Those already receiving restricted benefits don't need to apply for full-scope. They'll receive more information in the mail.

"It's a wonderful thing," Barnes said. "We're able now in Tulare County to provide not only to those 3,000 children that I talked about but to be able to provide additional health coverage to our families here in Tulare County."

Tulare County officials have been working with Family Healthcare Network to find eligible clients.

For those children not already covered by Medi-Cal, families can apply online, visit or call a district office.

"Health coverage is very important because it helps them with school, it helps them to progress in life," Barnes said. "To me it starts

with their nutrition, their health."

For more information on SB 75 or how to sign up for Medi-Cal,click here.