Kinship Support Services

DCS has implemented a new Kinship Support Services (KSS) program designed to remove the barriers that many kinship caregivers face. The purpose of this service is to support kinship caregivers from the time the kinship resource is identified through reunification, adoption or guardianship. The goal is to further increase the number of children in kinship homes, improve the supports required to stabilize living arrangements and assist families in navigating the child welfare system.

What is this Service?

Under the new program, kinship caregivers will now have the opportunity to receive similar benefits and supports as licensed foster parents. The services include:

• An expedited path to foster care licensing
• Home assessments
• Creation of a family support plan
• Initial and ongoing trainings
• Assistance with enrolling a child in school and other educational needs
• matching to a KSS agency

The program will also introduce kinship navigation services. These services will play a crucial role in assisting kinship families in navigating the complex child welfare system; accessing community resources; and locating medical/behavioral healthcare programs. KSS agencies will serve as a valuable resource, offering guidance, advocacy, and support to kinship caregivers throughout their time with DCS.

Eligibility

All current kinship caregivers are eligible for the expanded services. Your DCS Specialist will submit the referral on your behalf.

Once a KSS provider agency receives the referral, the provider will contact you by telephone within 1 business day. Within 3 business days, the KSS provider will make an in-home visit with you to describe the services and next steps. The KSS providers will remain in place to help you throughout your time with DCS.