Really helpful information for Kinship and foster parents

  • Teddy bear sitting in the car Can I Care for a Child I’m Not Related to in Virginia?
    In Virginia, you do not always need to be related by blood to care for a child you already know. A family friend, godparent, neighbor, coach, or other trusted adult may qualify as…
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  • Uncle sitting with kids at kitchen table Can I Become a Foster Parent for My Niece, Nephew or Grandchild in Virginia?
    This article explains how relatives can become kinship foster parents in Virginia when a child enters foster care. It emphasizes Virginia’s priority for considering family…
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  • Grandparents with grandchild I’m Raising My Grandchild in Virginia. What Help Can I Get?
    Grandparents caring for grandchildren in Virginia may face unexpected questions about custody, financial support, DSS involvement, and foster care. Learn how kinship care works,…
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  • Kin Family sitting with DSS DSS Asked Me to Care for a Relative’s Child. What Happens Next?
    This article provides practical guidance for relatives and trusted adults responding to a sudden request from DSS to care for a child in Virginia. It explains different kinship…
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  • grandma and aunt sitting with child What Is Kinship Care and Why Is It Important?
    This article explains kinship care in Virginia and why children benefit from staying with relatives or trusted adults they already know. It describes kinship arrangements,…
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