Kinship Care Services at Family Services of NW PA help facilitate the placement of children in the custody of a County Children and Youth agency into the home of a relative or other significant adult and provide ongoing supervision of placements. All referrals must come from a County Children and Youth agency.
Who can be a Kinship Care provider?
Pennsylvania's definition of kin includes existing relationships with a child that meets at least one of the following criteria:
- Relative through blood, marriage (affinity) or adoption;
- Godparent as recognized by an organized church;
- Member of the child's Indian tribe, nation or clan;
- Individual with a significant, positive relationship with the child or family (can include a teacher, neighbor, current or former resource parent, etc.)
How do I become a Kinship Care Provider?
The Kinship Care program is available by referral only. Referrals must be made by:
- Erie County Office of Children and Youth (OCY)
- Crawford County Children and Youth Services (CYS)
