This publication summarizes state laws and statutes regarding placement of children with relatives when they are removed from their home and enter foster care. In order for states to receive federal payments for foster care and adoption assistance, federal law requires that they "consider giving preference to an adult relative over a nonrelated caregiver when determining placement for a child, provided that the relative caregiver meets all relevant state child protection standards." Most states give preference or priority to relative placements in their statutes. This publication discusses definitions of "relative," financial support for relative placement, and adoption by relatives.
Michigan Placement of Children With Relatives is a program designed to prioritize and promote the placement of children who are in need of care with relatives. This initiative is part of the Michigan foster care system and is aimed at ensuring the best possible outcomes for children by placing them in a familiar and supportive environment. The placement of children with relatives in Michigan involves a comprehensive assessment conducted by child welfare professionals to determine the suitability of the relative caregiver. This assessment includes evaluating the relative's ability to provide a safe and stable home environment, proper care, and meet the child's needs. The child's best interests are always at the forefront of the decision-making process. One type of Michigan Placement of Children With Relatives is Kinship Care, which refers to the placement of children with relatives who have an established relationship with the child, such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, or adult siblings. Kinship care aims to maintain important family connections and offers children a sense of belonging and stability during a challenging time. Another type of placement is known as "Fictive Kin" care. Fictive Kin includes individuals who have a significant bond or relationship with the child, even if they are not biologically related. This could include close family friends, neighbors, or members of cultural or community groups that the child has strong ties to. Michigan Placement of Children With Relatives also involves an assessment of the relative caregiver's ability to meet the child's physical, emotional, educational, and medical needs. This may require the completion of various screenings, reference checks, and home visits to ensure the relative caregiver is capable of providing a safe and nurturing environment for the child. The program emphasizes the importance of maintaining connections between children and their biological families whenever possible. Relatives who are approved as suitable caregivers are often encouraged and supported in facilitating regular visitation and contact with the child's parents or other family members. By prioritizing the placement of children with relatives, Michigan Placement of Children With Relatives plays a crucial role in preserving family connections, maintaining stability, and promoting the overall well-being of children in need of care. It recognizes the value and potential of familiar relationships, allowing children to grow and thrive in a loving and supportive family environment.
