Today (Thursday) Washington Governor Chris Gregoire and King County Executive Ron Sims will kick off a statewide initiative that looks to enroll more children in state-sponsored children's medical coverage.

Called "Apple Health for Kids," the event will launch a bus tour that will visit other communities around the state during August and September, talking to parents, children, health professionals and community leaders about eligibility for children's medical and how families can enroll.

The event begins at 1 p.m. at Rainier Playfield, 3700 South Alaska Street, in the Rainier Valley.

As many as 75,000 Washington children are still uninsured, despite state legislative efforts to streamline eligibility standards, public health officials say. Studies have shown that many low-income families are eligible for coverage, but simply do not believe they can qualify.

IF YOU GO:

WHEN: 1 p.m. Thursday, July 31.

WHERE: Rainier Playfield, 3700 South Alaska St.

WHAT: Kickoff of statewide Apple Bus tour to promote state children's medical coverage.

WHO: Governor Gregoire, King County Executive Sims, health professionals, local children's advocates and stakeholders.