Celebrating Kinship & Relative Care Month: Honoring Families Who Step Up
September is Kinship and Relative Care Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the selfless love and dedication of families who open their hearts and homes to children in need. These families, often grandparents, aunts, uncles, and even close family friends, step up in times of crisis to provide stability, safety, and a sense of belonging to children who may otherwise face uncertainty. Kinship caregivers not only ensure that children remain connected to their families, but they also help foster emotional and psychological healing, allowing children to grow up with the care and support they deserve.
What is Kinship and Relative Care?
Kinship and relative care refer to situations where children who are unable to live with their birth parents are cared for by someone they already know, usually a family member. This form of care offers unique benefits, as children can remain connected to their family, culture, and community, which fosters emotional security and a sense of continuity.
While the idea of kinship care may sound simple—family taking care of family—it often involves significant sacrifice. Many kinship caregivers may be raising children while managing their own families or navigating retirement. Despite these challenges, they step up because they know that children thrive best when cared for by someone familiar who loves them.
Why Kinship Care Matters
Kinship caregivers are an integral part of the child welfare system. Studies show that children placed with relatives experience more stability, have fewer behavioral problems, and are more likely to maintain connections with siblings. They also tend to have shorter stays in foster care and are more likely to have a permanent home.
For children, being cared for by a relative can mean less trauma during an already difficult process. It provides an added layer of emotional support that only family can offer, allowing children to heal from the stress of separation while staying grounded in their heritage and family traditions.
Kinship and Relative Care Month shines a light on the quiet, everyday heroes who open their homes to vulnerable children. Their love and commitment deserve recognition, and this month is a perfect opportunity to show them that their sacrifices do not go unnoticed. Let’s continue to support, celebrate, and empower kinship caregivers for the difference they make in children's lives every day.
Want more information regarding kinship, relative, or foster care? Visit BetterLivingNE.com or give us a call at 402-476-0104.