In recent years, there has been a growing movement to ensure that when children cannot remain safely in their parents’ care, they are placed with relatives (kin) or trusted family friends (fictive kin). These types of placements are preferred over entering the traditional foster care system since research shows that children in kinship care often experience more stability, maintain stronger connections to their family and culture, and have better long-term outcomes.

To support this shift, efforts across the Commonwealth have focused on increasing access to resources for kinship families. This includes updates to legislation, the creation of support groups, the development of educational materials tailored to kinship caregivers, and the implementation of Kinship Navigators throughout Kentucky. Community events have also played a vital role in connecting families to the support systems they need.

This summer, Kentucky Youth Advocates (KYA), in partnership with Casey Family Programs and Play Cousins Collective (PCC), co-hosted Constellations of Care in West Louisville. The goal of the event was to bring kinship families together with local service providers, such as PCC, that are dedicated to supporting caregivers through providing resources, tools, and critical information. Rather than functioning as a one-way informational session, the event provided a collaborative space where participants could build community, share empowerment, and learn about kinship care as a sustainable permanency option for children.

Reflection from a Kinship Caregiver

The kinship event hosted by Play Cousins and Kentucky Youth Advocates was great. I loved the intentionality behind every activity and speaker. Sharing and hearing stories that remind me I am not in this alone was much needed. While I wish that more people had been able to participate, I am a firm believer that those who were there were meant to be there and received useful information and grew their support system. 

More events like this are needed for kinship caregivers who experience a lack of information, resources and who remain full of questions. Events like this allow for kinship caregivers the opportunity to ask questions and express frustrations in a safe and supportive environment.

Our next Kinship-focus event, Threads of Care: Weaving Kinship Stories, will take place in Louisville on October 28th from 6:00–8:00 PM ET. Follow Kentucky Youth Advocates and Play Cousins Collective on social media to be the first to know when registration opens. Dinner and child care will be provided for all attendees.

For additional resources, visit KYThrivingFamilies.org to access Navigating the Child Welfare System in Kentucky, a guide for families currently involved with Child Protective Services (CPS). It offers clear, practical  information and guidance to help families better understand their rights and available options.