Honoring kinship care: strengthening families, supporting futures 

September marks National Kinship Care Month, a time to bring awareness to the unwavering commitment of relatives and close family friends who step forward to care for children when their parents cannot. At the National CASA/GAL Association for Children, we honor these caregivers and reaffirm our dedication to advocating for the best interests of children and youth in kinship care.

Kinship care is a lifeline. It offers children the chance to remain connected to their roots, their culture, and their community. Whether it’s a grandmother, an aunt, or a trusted family friend, kinship caregivers provide stability and love during times of uncertainty. Their homes become places of familiarity and healing.

Today, more than 2.4 million children in the U.S. are being raised in kinship care arrangements. These caregivers often take on this responsibility with little notice and limited support, yet they rise to the occasion with resilience and compassion. Their role is essential, not only in keeping families together but in promoting better outcomes for children.

Research consistently shows that children in kinship care experience:

• Greater placement stability
• Fewer behavioral challenges
• Stronger emotional well-being
• A deeper sense of identity and belonging

These outcomes reflect the power of family connections. When children remain with people they know and trust, the trauma of separation is softened. They are more likely to thrive, both emotionally and developmentally.

CASA/GAL volunteers advocate for children in kinship care by ensuring they have access to the services and support they need. This can include connecting caregivers with financial and educational resources.

As we observe National Kinship Care Month, we celebrate the families who open their hearts and homes. Their love and dedication deserve our deepest gratitude and strongest advocacy. We also recommit to our mission to support and promote court-appointed volunteer advocacy so every child who has experienced abuse or neglect can be safe, have a permanent home, and the opportunity to thrive.