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.
Minnesota Placement of Children With Relatives is a program aimed at providing a safe and nurturing environment for children who are unable to be cared for by their biological parents. This program recognizes the importance of maintaining family connections in the lives of these children and seeks to place them with relatives whenever possible. The primary goal of the Minnesota Placement of Children With Relatives program is to ensure that children are placed in stable and loving homes, where they can continue to have a strong connection with their extended family. By prioritizing kinship placements, the program aims to minimize the disruption and trauma that children may experience when separated from their biological parents. There are different types of kinship placements within the Minnesota Placement of Children With Relatives program, including: 1. Formal Kinship Placement: In this type of placement, children are placed with relatives who have been approved through a comprehensive assessment process. These relatives are willing and able to provide the necessary care and support for the child, ensuring their well-being and development. 2. Informal Kinship Placement: Sometimes, children may be informally placed with relatives without going through a formal approval process. This type of placement may occur in emergency situations or when immediate action is needed to protect the child's safety and well-being. 3. Voluntary Kinship Placement: In some cases, parents may voluntarily choose to place their child with a relative. This can be a temporary arrangement while the parents work towards resolving personal issues or finding stability in their lives. The relative must meet certain criteria to be eligible for this type of placement. 4. Kinship Foster Care: When a child is unable to remain in their home due to circumstances such as abuse, neglect, or parental incarceration, they may be placed with a relative who has become a licensed foster parent. Kinship foster care ensures that the child's needs are met while maintaining their connection to the extended family. The Minnesota Placement of Children With Relatives program recognizes the significance of kinship relationships in a child's life and strives to ensure that they are supported in a loving and familiar environment. By promoting these placements, the program aims to enhance the stability, well-being, and long-term success of children who may have faced adversity in their lives.
