TennCare Shelter Enrollment Project
The TennCare Shelter Enrollment Project exists to ensure that children who are experiencing homelessness in Tennessee can enroll in and enjoy the benefits of TennCare (Tennessee’s Medicaid managed care program).
The National Health Care for the Homeless Council initiated the TennCare Shelter Enrollment Project in 1998 with support from a HUD Emergency Shelter Grant provided through the Tennessee Department of Human Services.
The project is now supported by a contract with the Bureau of TennCare, Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration.
Project History & Council Involvement
The National Health Care for the Homeless Council (NHCHC) has had the privilege to facilitate TennCare Shelter Enrollment Project for over 25 years. Under the facilitation of this contract, NHCHC has established and maintained strong collaborative interagency linkages in partnership with numerous shelters, Continuum of Care (COC) contacts, and outreach workers statewide.
NHCHC offered ongoing support, technical assistance, TennCare training (virtually an in-person) to shelter and outreach worker staff. We are proud to acknowledge that during the 2023-2024 contract year, NHCHC taught shelter staff how to initiate TennCare applications and how to complete TennCare renewals for shelter residents using the TennCare Connect online member portal. Over one hundred case managers, outreach workers, housing navigators, crisis counselors, shelter administrators, and volunteers received training on TennCare enrollment, eligibility, benefits, renewal, and TennCare Connect online member portal. NHCHC facilitated training for the staff of at least 25 health centers, health departments, behavioral health centers, emergency departments, and other TennCare funded agencies that serve individuals experiencing homelessness.
During the most recent contract year, NHCHC provided direct 1:1 assistance to over 75 individuals residing in emergency/homeless/domestic violence shelters, or those identified as experiencing homelessness. Direct 1:1 assistance included various types of support such as the completion of initial TennCare applications and support with renewal information and application assistance. The Council also served as a resource hub for to stay updated on TennCare updates, and to have access to the TennCare Connect portal.
Resources
In an effort to continue to support, the links below provide more information about TennCare and other healthcare resources for children without stable homes in Tennessee:
TennCare Kids
This is the state TennCare site and offers detailed information about TennCare enrollment, benefits, and the renewal process.
The TennCare Advocacy Program
provides information, assistance, and referrals about TennCare.
The Tennessee Department of Human Services
This site offers numerous services to parents or legal guardians trying to obtain financial and medical support for their child or children.
The Tennessee Department of Health
This site can assist you in finding a local health department that provides well-child checkups, including physical exams, screening tests, and immunizations.