When a child or young person cannot stay with a parent, placing them with a relative or close family friend, known as a kinship caregiver, is the best choice. National Kinship Care Month recognizes and celebrates these kinship caregivers. Often, they are grandparents, aunts, uncles, or close family friends and play a crucial role in the lives of these children. This month serves as a reminder of the importance of family, community, and support, especially in child welfare.

Why Kinship Care Matters

• Stability and continuity. Kinship caregivers who already have established relationships provide a sense of familiarity and belonging. This stability can help children maintain connections with their cultural heritage, family traditions, and community. Which helps in fostering a sense of identity and security.
• Keeping families together. Children or young people in kinship care often experience fewer disruptions and less trauma than those in foster care with unrelated caregivers. The emotional bonds between the child and the kinship caregiver can provide a crucial buffer against the trauma of separation from their parents.

Celebrating National Kinship Care Month sheds light on their vital role in our society. We work closely with child welfare agencies, supporting our clients’ awareness, capacity, and strategies to enhance kinship care. It is one example of how we help improve the outcomes for children and their families.