There are two options for family members to become Kinship Caregivers:

1. The court can award a kinship caregiver temporary custody & guardianship of the child.

• Having custody and guardianship of the child gives you some independence in making decisions for the child. It also gives you more responsibility.
• You will be responsible for making sure the child’s needs are met while in your care. This includes enrolling the child in school, arranging counseling or therapy, and accessing any other services the child may need.
• As the child’s guardian, you can seek support from community resources. If you are related to the child you may receive financial and Medicaid assistance by applying through the Department of Workforce Services. If you do this, you may be required to complete “duty of support” paperwork, authorizing the State to collect child support from the child’s parents/guardians.
• The Division of Child and Family Services (DCFS) can refer you for services deemed necessary for the health and well-being of the child.
• You may have a caseworker from DCFS assigned to monitor the child’s case and see that the child is getting what they need. This is referred to as “in-home services”.

2. Kinship Caregivers may become Licensed Foster/Adoptive Families for the child.

• The child remains in the legal custody and guardianship of DCFS but is placed with the licensed kinship foster parent.
• A DCFS caseworker is assigned to monitor the child’s case and see that the child is getting what they need. The caseworker will be required to meet regularly with the child and the licensed kinship foster family. The caseworker will also help to coordinate visits between the child and their biological parents.
• The licensed kinship foster parent receives a monthly reimbursement based on the child’s needs and consistent with current foster care reimbursement rates.
• DCFS facilitates obtaining specialized services and support, including Medicaid eligibility.
• State health care professionals are assigned to work with the licensed kinship foster family and ensure that the child’s medical, dental and mental health needs are met.
• Children in DCFS custody may qualify for additional educational and therapeutic support.

Toll-free: 877.505.KIDS
Local: 801.994.5205
moreinfo@utahfostercare.org