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Home > Supporting & Preserving Families > Family Support Services > Specialized Services for Kinship Caregivers
Specialized Services for Kinship Caregivers
Family support services for kinship caregivers must take into account that kin are likely to be single, older, in poorer health, and financially less secure than nonrelative caregivers, while children in their care are generally younger and often need special services. These families generally receive few economic supports and are less likely to be aware of services available to them once a child is placed in their care. In addition, they may not have support from extended family, peers, or the community in general.
Commonly needed supports include financial assistance, childcare, respite, medical care, and training in parenting skills. Family mediation or counseling is also often needed to assist caregivers and birth parents in resolving conflicts, easing the difficulties of parenting a relative's child, and achieving a permanent plan for the child.
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