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.
Tennessee Placement of Children With Relatives is a vital program designed to ensure the safety and well-being of children by placing them with suitable and caring kinship caregivers. This initiative aims to maintain family connections, provide stability, and promote positive development for children who are unable to live with their parents due to various reasons such as abuse, neglect, or parental unavailability. The Tennessee Department of Children's Services (DCS) oversees the Placement of Children With Relatives program, which adheres to the guidelines and regulations set by the state. This program recognizes the importance of maintaining family ties and prioritizes placing children with extended family members whenever possible. There are several types of placements under the Tennessee Placement of Children With Relatives program, each addressing specific circumstances and needs: 1. Kinship Foster Care: In this type of placement, children are temporarily placed with relatives who have become licensed foster parents. These relatives undergo a thorough assessment and training process to ensure they can provide a safe and nurturing environment for the child. 2. Legal Custody: In certain cases, a relative may be granted legal custody of a child. This gives the relative the authority to make important decisions regarding the child's education, healthcare, and general welfare. Legal custody placements aim to provide a stable and permanent home for children when their parents are unable to fulfill their caregiving responsibilities. 3. Guardianship: The Placement of Children With Relatives program also facilitates guardianship placements. Guardianship grants relatives legal responsibility for the child, typically until they reach adulthood. This arrangement is often pursued when it is not in the best interest of the child to return to their parents, but adoption is not feasible. Guardianship allows the child to maintain family connections while receiving support from a stable and loving caregiver. 4. Adoption: While adoption is not strictly categorized under the Placement of Children With Relatives program, there are instances where relatives choose to adopt a child within their extended family. Adoption gives the relative full legal rights and responsibilities as the child's parent, severing the legal ties with the birth parents. This option is pursued when it is determined that adoption is in the child's best interest. Overall, the Tennessee Placement of Children With Relatives program strives to provide children with safe and loving homes within their extended family whenever possible. The program recognizes the significance of maintaining familial bonds and seeks to offer placements that promote stability, emotional support, and a sense of belonging for children in need.
