Kinship Care is full-time care of a relative’s child in the absence of biological parents. This care is provided by grandparents, aunts, uncles, siblings or other adults. Over five million children in the United States are being raised by grandparents, most due to drugs, divorce, desertion or death.

The Kinship Care Program has assisted over 150 families in Barry County since 1996. Caregivers in these families are responsible for raising more than 225 children.

Some of the services provided by the Kinship Care Program include information and referral for additional services, adoption assistance, confidential support and a support group that meets monthly.

The goals of the Kinship Care Program include assisting families with emergency services, providing a strong support system and training sessions, promoting and improving family unity, offering leisure and enrichment opportunities and increasing awareness and empathy in the community.

If you would like more information, please contact the Kinship Care Coordinator at (269) 948-4856.

Page Last Modified: June 30, 2010 at 10:49 am