Kinship care in Alberta is a child welfare arrangement where children or youth in need of care are placed in the homes of extended family members or individuals with whom they share a significant, familial-like connection.

Derived from “Next of Kin”.

This system is designed to provide children with a safe, nurturing environment that maintains familial bonds and cultural heritage.

Key Features of Kinship Care in Alberta

• Extended Family Home: Kinship care is characterized by the placement of children or youth in care with caregivers who have a pre-existing relationship with them, such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, or close family friends.
• Support and Stability: Kinship caregivers offer children love, care, and stability in a familiar setting, fostering a sense of trust and comfort. This arrangement supports the child’s ability to build healthy relationships within their family and community.
• Cultural and Identity Reinforcement: One of the primary benefits of kinship care is the reinforcement of the child’s cultural identity and positive self-esteem through the continuation of family traditions and memories.
• Role of Kinship Caregivers: Caregivers in the kinship care program are responsible for the day-to-day needs of the child, including physical, emotional, spiritual, and cultural needs. They work as part of a team with the child, the parents, extended family, support network, caseworker, and other professionals to ensure the child’s well-being.

Becoming a Kinship Caregiver in Alberta

To become a kinship caregiver, individuals must be at least 18 years old and willing to have the identified child(ren) placed in their home.

The approval process involves understanding and agreeing to proceed with the necessary steps to ensure the child’s safety and well-being.

Support for Kinship Caregivers

Kinship caregivers in Alberta receive support through government programs, agencies, and the Alberta Foster Kinship Association.

This support includes compensation, training, mentorship, resources for respite and child care, peer support, and recognition events.

The goal is to ensure that both the child’s and caregivers’ needs are met, providing a stable and nurturing environment for the child.

FAQs on Kinship Care in Alberta

What makes kinship care different from foster care? While both kinship care and foster care aim to provide safe environments for children in need, kinship care specifically involves caregivers who have a pre-existing relationship with the child, emphasizing the maintenance of family ties and cultural heritage.

How do I become a kinship caregiver? Interested individuals can contact their local Children and Family Services office or Delegated First Nation Agency to express their interest and begin the approval process.

What support is available for kinship caregivers? Kinship caregivers have access to a range of supports, including financial compensation, training opportunities, and resources for child care and respite, to assist them in their caregiving role.

In Summary

• Kinship care in Alberta provides a child welfare option that prioritizes the placement of children with extended family or close connections, promoting their well-being in a familiar and culturally relevant environment.
• Caregivers play a crucial role in providing stability, love, and support, ensuring the child’s physical, emotional, and cultural needs are met.
• Alberta offers comprehensive support for kinship caregivers to aid them in their vital role, including financial compensation, training, and resources.

For more detailed information on kinship care in Alberta, including how to become a kinship caregiver and the supports available, visit the official Alberta government website on Becoming a Kinship Caregiver and explore the Kinship Care Handbook for comprehensive guidance.