Grantmakers in the News

March 1, 2004

The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Sponsors Cover the Uninsured Week 2004

The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation has announced that Noah Wyle, star of television drama "ER," will serve as the national spokesperson for Cover the Uninsured Week 2004. The Foundation expects Cover the Uninsured Week, "to be the largest mobilization in history to promote the goal of health coverage for all Americans."

Hundreds of national and local organizations across the nation have planned activities leading up to, during, and after Cover the Uninsured Week, which will take place form May 10-16, 2004. Many of the health fairs, workshops, and other events will offer medical screenings for the uninsured and help eligible applicants enroll in the State Children's Health Insurance Program and Medicaid.

Risa Lavizzo-Mourey, president and CEO of The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, notes, "Nearly 18,000 Americans die each year because they do not have health coverage, and that amounts to a real-life emergency. That's why I am gratified that Noah Wyle, who masterfully depicts an ER doctor on one of America's most popular TV programs, is lending his voice, talent, and passion to this effort."

The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation in Princeton, N.J., is the nation's largest foundation that focuses on improving the health care of all Americans.

"Noah Wyle to Serve as National Spokesperson for Cover the Uninsured Week 2004." Press Release, December 8, 2003.