Kinship/Grandfamilies
Generations United’s National Center on Grandfamilies works to improve access to supportive programs and laws, advocating for policies informed by kinship caregivers and youth. Despite their strengths, grandfamilies face significant barriers due to systems not designed for their unique needs. Tasks like enrolling children in school or accessing medical care are especially challenging for those outside the foster care system, where the majority of kinship families raise children.
On average, for every one child being raised by kin inside of foster care, there are 18 being raised by kin outside of foster care. Financial benefits and supports often hinge on foster care and licensing status, leaving many families disconnected from resources. Some common challenges encountered by grandfamilies include:
- Securing financial assistance and health insurance coverage
- Finding affordable housing suitable for the children
- Enrolling children in school
- Obtaining special education services
- Getting consent for medical and mental health treatment
Despite the challenges, research shows that the children in grandfamilies thrive. Caregivers also experience benefits like an increased sense of purpose in life. Below, find resources on federal laws and initiatives designed to help grandfamilies.
- Grandfamilies & Kinship Support Network
- Kinship Unity Action Agenda
- Supporting America’s Children and Families Act: Summary of Provisions Affecting Kinship Families
- Kinship Navigator Programs Around the United States
- USAging Poll Guide/Report
- State Educational and Health Care Consent Laws: Policy Brief and Summary
- National Family Caregiver Support Program (NFCSP)
- Improving Grandfamilies’ Access to Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
- Family First Prevention Services Act Brief Summary Implications for Grandfamilies
Resources:
Grandfamilies.org
Grandfamilies State Fact Sheets
Kinship Unity Action Agenda
Annual State of Grandfamilies in America Reports
