One of the biggest changes to come out of the federal Affordable Care Act was the creation of health insurance marketplaces, where those without coverage could shop through different plans and choose the one that best fit their needs. By creating competition between insurance companies, costs are kept down so that many Missourians who once couldn’t afford healthcare now have access to it. It has been incredibly beneficial to thousands of citizens in our state. It filled a much-needed coverage gap, especially for the working poor.

However, navigating the marketplace and picking the best plan is not easy. The sheer number of options and the slight differences in each plan can make it extremely difficult. Luckily, there are nonprofit groups and organizations that have stepped forward to help Missourians take advantage of the insurance marketplaces, and the peace of mind healthcare coverage brings.

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For many families throughout Missouri, times are still tight. Countless citizens struggle every day to provide for themselves and their children, to put food on the table and keep a roof over their family’s heads. One of the most costly expenditures is for utilities, especially during fall and winter. Rates continue to go up, while wages have generally remained stagnant. It puts a significant burden on lower-income families. No one should have to choose between feeding their children and having heat in their home.

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