Kentucky’s only kinship reunification program, Kindred Roots, is closing its doors on June 30 after losing its state funding. The program has served as a lifeline for kinship caregivers, who are family members that take in children who can no longer safely live with their biological parents.

Impact on Families

Grandmother and kinship caregiver Faith Blair had to step in when her family needed her most. “Life happens… It is due to my daughter’s addiction. I’m just going to be transparent. She had an addiction… The dad had an addiction… and I had to step into the role to take care of the first one,” Blair said. Kindred Roots was there to help her through the transition, providing support and resources for her and her family.

Now, with the program ending, Blair is pleading for action. “It is hurtful, because a lot of families are in need and this is a good program,” Blair said. Program Director Samantha Sheets said the notice came with little time to prepare, and staff is now focused on ensuring families don’t fall through the cracks.

Continuity of Care

Staff is working closely with frontline workers to figure out a continuity of care for the families they serve. Caregiver Advocate Erin Moran said consistency is critical for children in kinship care, and losing that stability raises serious concerns. “When we’re taking away something that they’re comfortable with… now they’re confused and wondering — when am I going to see my parents again… Am I going to go to foster care now?” Moran said.

Program Supervisor Noelle Thomas said the broader community may not fully grasp what is at stake. “We know that there is an issue with high numbers of children in out of home care. Now we have to work backwards and strengthen the organizations and services we already have,” Thomas said. Thomas said the program’s staff will not stop fighting for the families they serve, and will continue to advocate for a policy change.

Original reporting: WTVQ (Lexington) — read the source article.