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.
Oregon Placement of Children With Relatives is a program implemented by the Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) to ensure the well-being and safety of children who cannot live with their parents by placing them with suitable relatives or kin. It aims to provide a stable, nurturing environment for these children while keeping them connected to their extended family. The placement of children with relatives in Oregon is a preferred option to maintain family connections and support the child's overall development. The program recognizes the importance of nurturing relationships with relatives, as they typically know the child's background, culture, and family dynamics. There are different types of Oregon Placement of Children With Relatives programs available, tailored to suit the unique needs of each child: 1. Kinship Foster Care: Under this type of placement, relatives such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, or siblings take on the role of foster parents. Kinship foster care ensures that the child is cared for by someone they already know and trust, minimizing the disruption in their lives during an already challenging time. The goal of kinship fosters care is usually reunification with the birth parents, but if that is not possible or appropriate, the relative may continue as a permanent caregiver through guardianship or adoption. 2. Informal Kinship Care: Informal kinship care refers to situations where a child is cared for by a relative or close family friend without the involvement of the child welfare system. It is an arrangement made privately between families and is often based on trust and familiarity. Although not officially part of the Oregon Placement of Children With Relatives program, DHS may still provide support and assistance to families in informal kinship care arrangements. 3. Adoptive Kinship: Adoptive kinship occurs when a relative becomes the permanent legal guardian of a child through adoption. This type of placement is suitable when the child's birth parents are unable to provide a safe and stable home environment. Adoptive kinship grants the relative all legal rights and responsibilities of a birth parent, ensuring the child's long-term security. The Oregon Placement of Children With Relatives program emphasizes the importance of thorough assessments, home studies, and ongoing support to ensure that relatives meet the necessary requirements to provide a safe and nurturing environment for the child. Regular visits, comprehensive training, and access to resources are also provided to support the relative caregivers in their important role. By prioritizing kinship placements, the Oregon DHS aims to preserve the child's sense of identity, stability, and familial connection. This program recognizes that children thrive when placed within their extended family networks, enabling them to grow in a familiar and loving environment.
