Kinship caregivers — grandparents, aunts, uncles, siblings, and other relatives who step up to care for a child — are the backbone of the foster care system. But they often receive far less support than licensed foster parents and may not know what they're entitled to.

Federal priority for relatives: The Fostering Connections to Success Act (2008) requires child welfare agencies to give preference to relative placements — agencies must notify relatives within 30 days of a child's removal.
Licensed vs. unlicensed kinship care: If you become a licensed kinship foster parent, you receive the same monthly maintenance payment as any other licensed foster parent. Unlicensed kinship caregivers typically receive a lower "kinship care" payment — getting licensed is worth the effort.
Kinship Navigator Programs: Federally funded programs that help relatives navigate available benefits, services, and legal options. Use the Child Welfare Information Gateway locator to find a program near you.
GrandFamilies.org — a comprehensive resource site specifically for grandparents and other relatives raising children, covering legal, financial, and practical topics.
AARP GrandFamilies Guide — free guide covering legal custody options, benefits, school enrollment, and more for grandparents raising grandchildren.
Tennessee: TN DCS operates a Kinship Navigator Program that helps relative caregivers in Tennessee access services and navigate the system — contact TN DCS for a referral.
Kinship families are eligible for most of the same resources as licensed foster families — including child-only SNAP, Medicaid for the child, and WIC — but must often ask specifically. Your caseworker should be your first call.

Tip: If you are caring for a relative's child and are not yet licensed, contact your local child welfare agency and ask specifically about becoming a licensed kinship foster parent. Licensing takes time, but it typically doubles the monthly support payment — and gives you access to respite care, training, and other resources.

Resources for foster familiesin Tennessee

Resources for foster families
in Tennessee