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Supporting Children Through Family Connections

Kinship care occurs when relatives or trusted family friends step in to care for children when parents are unable to do so. These caregivers provide stability, familiarity, and emotional support during times of transition.

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At our organization, we recognize the vital role kinship caregivers play in strengthening families and communities — and we are here to help connect you to resources and support.

What is Kinship Care?

Kinship care refers to full-time care provided by relatives or close family connections such as:

  • Grandparents

  • Aunts or uncles

  • Adult siblings

  • Godparents

  • Close family friends or neighbors

Remaining with familiar caregivers helps children maintain relationships, culture, and routine — often reducing trauma and supporting emotional wellbeing.

In Michigan, many kinship arrangements begin informally, with families stepping in quickly to keep children safe.

Types of Kinship Care Arrangements

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Informal Care

  • No court involvement

  • Arranged between caregiver and parent

  • Limited authority for school or medical decisions

 

Legal Guardianship

  • Ordered through family court

  • Caregiver has decision-making authority

  • Provides stability without terminating parental rights

Licensed Kinship Foster Care

  • Placement coordinated through
    Michigan Department of Health and Human Services

  • Requires licensing

  • May include financial support and services

 

Kinship Adoption

  • Permanent legal relationship

  • Full parental rights transferred

  • Long-term stability for the child

Partnerships & Collaborations

Our program works hand-in-hand with other local agencies and organizations to best serve families in need of information and support services.

Community Partnerships

  • Department of Health and Human Services

  • CareWell Services

Inter-agency Collaboration

  • Calhoun County intra-agency training coalition

JOIN A SUPPORT GROUP!

A SUPPORT GROUP offers the opportunity to . . .

  • meet others who are providing kinship care

  • confidentially share joys, concerns, and challenges

  • be understood and receive emotional support

  • Share information and learn about available resources

  • be accepted for yourself and know you are not alone

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SUPPORT GROUPS

Support groups currently meeting:​

  • Afternoon Kinship Support Group meets on the 3rd Thursday of each month from 6:30 - 7:30 pm at the Family Enrichment Center. Limited Childcare provided. RSVP is required Please call 269-660-0449 to pre-register.

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Services funded in part by CareWell Services Southwest, Region 3B Area Agency on Aging, through the MI Aging and Adult Services Agency/MI Dept of Health and Human Services

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