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.
Nebraska Placement of Children With Relatives, also known as Nebraska Kinship Placement, is a child welfare program designed to prioritize placing children who are unable to remain with their biological parents into the care of relatives or extended family members. This program emphasizes maintaining strong familial connections and continuity in a child's life while ensuring their safety, well-being, and stability. The Nebraska Placement of Children With Relatives program recognizes the importance of kinship care, as research has shown that children who live with relatives tend to experience better emotional and behavioral outcomes compared to those placed in non-relative foster care. This placement option provides a supportive environment for children, where they can remain connected to their cultural heritage, family traditions, and maintain relationships with siblings, cousins, and other relatives. The program includes various types of kinship placements, which are tailored to the specific needs and circumstances of each child. These may include: 1. Formal Kinship Placement: In this type of placement, a child is placed with a relative or extended family member through a formal legal process. The relative is required to meet specific licensing or approval standards set by the child welfare agency. 2. Voluntary Kinship Placement: This placement involves a child being placed with a relative or extended family member based on a voluntary agreement between the child's parents and the relative. While it may not involve legal proceedings or formal licensing, it often requires the approval and oversight of the child welfare agency. 3. Informal Kinship Placement: In some cases, a child may be placed with a relative or extended family member without any involvement of the child welfare agency or court system. It is important to note that while this type of placement can provide stability and a sense of familiarity for the child, it may lack the necessary legal protections and supports. The Nebraska Placement of Children With Relatives program recognizes the unique challenges and dynamics involved in kinship care. It offers support services to relative caregivers, including access to financial assistance, counseling, respite care, and training opportunities to help navigate the complexities of raising a child who is not their own. By prioritizing kinship placements, Nebraska strives to create a nurturing and stable environment for children who cannot be in their parents' care. This program works to ensure that children grow up with support from their extended family network, preserving their bonds and cultural identity, and promoting their overall well-being.
