Parent Resources

Early Childhood Healthcare Outreach (ECHO)

Who are we?- We are a CPS program that wants to assist you and your family in getting FREE or REDUCED HEALTH INSURANCE: All Kids (formerly known as KidCare). ECHO Agents can help you in English and Spanish over the phone. For questions or to apply, call 773-553-ECHO (3246).

Why should you apply? During these tough economical times the last thing you should worry about are medical expenses for your children.

Are you…

  • A Parent, Grandparent, or Guardian? If your kids are receiving All Kids, you might be eligible for “Family Care”
  • Pregnant? “Moms & Babies” covers prenatal care for pregnant women
  • Already have Private Health Insurance? You may be able to get up to $75 per person per month to assist paying for your premiums or medical expenses

What AllKids offers…

  • Doctor services, prescription drugs and medical supplies when needed
  • Dental services, hearing services, eye exams and glasses
  • Physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and more

How to apply…

You can apply for AllKids with one of the ECHO agents right over the phone instead of going to your local Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) office. To apply all you have to do is:

1. Call ECHO’S hotline at 773-553-ECHO (3246) a Bilingual Hotline Operator is ready to assist you in English or Spanish

2. An agent will call you within 5 business days to begin the application process

3. Application will be mailed to your home for review. You will then mail the application along with needed documents in the self-address envelope provided to you

4. Agents will submit the application to Springfield on your behalf

5. You will receive the notification or denial of benefits through the mail within 45 day

Commonly Asked Questions

1. Who can apply?

Answer: All children under the age of 19 are eligible for AllKids regardless of immigration status or family income . Adults are also eligible and offers a variety of programs varying in income levels to meet your health care needs. If you are pregnant and undocumented you also can receive medical benefits. To receive Family Care you must be either a citizen or have been a Legal Permanent Resident for at least 5 years to be eligible.

2. If I have private health insurance can I still apply?

Answer: Yes, you may still be eligible for one of the health care plans offered through AllKids even if you have your own private insurance though your place of employment. You may also qualify for a monthly rebate of up to $75 per person per month depending on income guidelines as well as household size to assist you in paying your premium or medical expenses.

3. Are these benefits the same as the benefits public aid offers?

Answer: Yes, this is the same benefit that your local IDHS office offers, however we offer the convenience of applying for benefits over the phone.

4. Will this affect me if I want to become a resident/US citizen?

Answer: No, you will not be considered a public charge for receiving medical benefits. (Link Public Charge Brochure PDF)

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