We believe children and youth thrive in their families. Whenever possible, we reach out to families for help
“Families are the compass that guides us. They are the inspiration to reach great heights, and our comfort when we occasionally falter.” Brad Henry
When children cannot be cared for safely by their parents, we look to other family members or people who are familiar to the child to provide a safe, nurturing home for as long as that child requires it. We call this Kinship Service.
There are two ways that a child can be placed in your home under Kinship Service;
1. Voluntary Service Agreement
The child's parent signs an agreement with Family and Children's Services placing the child with a kin service caregiver for a specific period of time. The child's parent, the kin service caregiver and the workers involved will sit down and talk about what everyone is responsible for. The child's parent has the right to make decisions about school and medical care.
2. Supervision Order
The Court may make an order to place the child with a kin service caregiver for a period ranging between 4-12 months. The Court will give the child's parent some things to work on during this time. Plans for visiting between the child and the parent will be ordered by the Court.