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.
Rhode Island Placement of Children With Relatives, also known as kinship care or relative caregiving, refers to the practice of placing children who cannot live with their parents in the care of their relatives or extended family members. This arrangement allows children to remain within their familiar environment and maintain connections with their family, even when they cannot be raised by their parents. There are different types of Rhode Island Placement of Children With Relatives, including: 1. Formal Kinship Care: When the state recognizes the relative as an official caregiver through legal agreements or court-ordered placements. This arrangement provides formal support, financial assistance, and social services to help the caregiver meet the child's needs. 2. Informal Kinship Care: In cases where the child is placed with a relative without the intervention of the state or court system. This type of placement often occurs due to family emergencies, crises, or when parents cannot adequately care for their child. Informal kinship care does not involve the same level of formal support as formal kinship care. 3. Foster Kinship Care: Sometimes, the state may license relatives as foster parents to provide temporary or long-term care for children who are unable to remain with their parents. Foster kinship care involves a more structured arrangement that includes regular visitation by child welfare professionals and ongoing monitoring. Rhode Island recognizes the importance of kinship care and aims to promote the well-being of children by prioritizing relative placements whenever possible. The state acknowledges that maintaining family connections can have positive impacts on children's emotional, psychological, and social development. Placement of children with relatives helps to provide stability, continuity, and a sense of belonging for children during challenging times. It often minimizes the trauma that can be associated with sudden removal from the home environment and separation from family members. Rhode Island supports relative caregivers by offering various services such as financial assistance, Medicaid, respite care, counseling, and support groups. The state also provides training and resources for kinship caregivers to enhance their parenting skills and ensure they have access to vital resources for the child's well-being. In conclusion, Rhode Island Placement of Children With Relatives enables children to be cared for by their extended family members, ensuring they stay connected to their roots and maintain important family relationships. The state recognizes and supports the critical role that relatives play in providing loving and stable homes for children in need.
