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.
Ohio Placement of Children With Relatives is a program designed to ensure the safe and nurturing care of children who are unable to remain with their parents or primary caregivers. This program recognizes the importance of maintaining family connections and preserving familial bonds while providing a stable and supportive environment for the child's well-being. One type of Ohio Placement of Children With Relatives is the Kinship Care Placement. Kinship care refers to the placement of children with relatives, commonly known as kin, who have an existing relationship with the child. This type of placement aims to offer a sense of familiarity and continuity for children, minimizing disruption and trauma during a challenging time. Another type of placement is known as Foster Care Placement with Relatives. In cases where no appropriate kinship care option is available, children may be placed with relatives who are licensed foster parents. These relatives go through the necessary training and licensing requirements to ensure the child's safety and well-being under the foster care system. The Ohio Placement of Children With Relatives program emphasizes a careful assessment and matching process to determine the most suitable relatives for the child's placement. This includes evaluating the relative's ability to provide a stable and loving home environment, taking into consideration factors such as their housing situation, financial stability, and overall capacity to meet the child's physical, emotional, and developmental needs. Once a child is placed with relatives, the Ohio Placement of Children With Relatives program continues to provide ongoing support and resources to both the child and the caregivers. This support may include financial assistance, counseling, access to healthcare services, and other necessary support systems. Overall, Ohio Placement of Children With Relatives strives to ensure that children are placed in the most appropriate and secure family setting when they are unable to remain with their parents. By prioritizing the importance of maintaining family connections, this program aims to provide children with a stable and nurturing environment, promoting their overall well-being and future success.
