Title
Vote to adopt a resolution to recognizing September 2026 as Kinship Care month
Abstract
Introduction & Background: Kinship care is when children and youth live with relatives, such as aunts, uncles, grandparents, siblings, extended family, or fictive kin (people known to the family). When the home environment is unsafe, kinship placements help to maintain family connections and minimize the trauma of separation. (Child Welfare Information Gateway, 2026).
Discussion & Analysis: While Chatham County has long encouraged kinship care through providing monthly financial support to kinship families being licensed as foster parents, NC DHHS established the Guardianship Assistance Program in 2017 and expanded the support available through the Kinship Guardianship Assistance Program in 2025 which provides state funding for kinship families. Research suggests that children in kinship placements experience fewer moves and better mental health outcomes than children in traditional foster homes (Child Welfare Information Gateway, 2026).
How does this relate to the Comprehensive Plan: This relates directly to the Comprehensive Plan goal to “Foster a Healthy Community.” Research supports kinship care placements “help to maintain family connections, cultural traditions and minimize the trauma of separation” (Child Welfare Information Gateway, 2026).
Budgetary Impact: None
Recommendation/Motion: Motion to adopt a resolution to recognizing September 2026 as Kinship Care month.