Navigating the Nevada Kinship Care Program: A Comprehensive Guide for Relatives

Kinship care plays a vital role in Nevada’s child welfare system, offering a safe and nurturing environment for children who cannot remain with their parents. When children in Nevada face circumstances requiring removal from their homes due to neglect, abuse, or other family challenges, the Nevada Kinship Care Program prioritizes placement with relatives or close family friends (fictive kin). This approach recognizes the profound benefits of maintaining family connections and cultural identity for children during difficult times.

This guide provides an in-depth look at the Nevada Kinship Care Program, outlining its various facets, benefits, licensing procedures, caregiver expectations, and available support systems. Whether you are a relative considering kinship care, currently a caregiver, or simply seeking information, this resource aims to provide clarity and comprehensive understanding of the program in Nevada.

Understanding the Landscape of Kinship Care in Nevada

Kinship care, at its core, is the full-time care, nurturing, and protection of a child by a relative or fictive kin. This arrangement steps in when a child’s parents are unable to provide adequate care, often involving intervention from the Child Welfare Agency. Prioritizing relatives for placement is based on the understanding that children thrive best when connected to their families and communities, even amidst challenging circumstances. The Nevada Kinship Care Program acknowledges this and actively works to support these placements.

Kinship care arrangements in Nevada are broadly categorized into three types, each with distinct levels of Child Welfare Agency involvement and available resources:

Formal Kinship Care (Agency Custody): In this arrangement, the Child Welfare Agency holds legal custody of the child and places them with relatives or fictive kin. Nevada’s formal kinship care families are entitled to the same resources as traditional foster parents, especially if they choose to become licensed foster homes. This pathway offers the most structured support and financial assistance through the Nevada Kinship Care Program.
Voluntary or Informal Kinship Care (Agency Involvement, No Custody): This category involves situations where the Child Welfare Agency is involved with the family but does not take formal legal custody. Relatives may be asked by the Agency to take custody of the child to prevent entry into the foster care system. While the Agency is aware and involved, the level of formal support might differ from formal kinship care. Navigating the Nevada Kinship Care Program in this context might require proactive engagement to access available resources.
Private Kinship Care (No Agency Involvement): These arrangements are initiated privately by relatives without Child Welfare Agency intervention. Private kinship care represents the most common form of kinship care and includes situations like guardianship or custody granted through the courts independently, temporary guardianship, and informal physical custody. While these families may not automatically receive program benefits, understanding the Nevada Kinship Care Program can still be valuable for accessing resources and support networks.

The Profound Benefits of Kinship Care within the Nevada System

The Nevada Kinship Care Program recognizes and builds upon the inherent strengths of kinship care. It is not just a placement option; it’s a family preservation strategy that provides significant advantages for children facing family separation:

Familiarity and Trust: Children placed in kinship care live with individuals they often already know and trust. This pre-existing bond provides a crucial sense of security and stability during a turbulent time, fostering healthier relationship development. This trust is foundational to the success of the Nevada Kinship Care Program.
Enhanced Stability and Permanency: Kinship care placements tend to be more stable than placements with non-relatives. This stability increases the likelihood of achieving permanency for the child, whether through reunification with parents, adoption by relatives, or guardianship. The Nevada Kinship Care Program aims to leverage this stability for positive long-term outcomes.
Sibling Unity: Kinship care significantly increases the chances of siblings staying together. Maintaining sibling bonds is crucial for children’s emotional well-being and identity, and the Nevada Kinship Care Program actively supports keeping siblings together whenever possible.
Family and Cultural Continuity: Kinship care allows children to remain within their family’s culture, traditions, and community. This connection is vital for maintaining their sense of identity and belonging, minimizing the trauma associated with family separation. The Nevada Kinship Care Program values and promotes this cultural preservation.
Hope for Parents and Extended Family: Kinship care provides parents with hope and reassurance that their children are being cared for by family. It strengthens family connections and provides a foundation for potential reunification. The Nevada Kinship Care Program recognizes the importance of family unity and works towards positive family relationships.
Improved Well-being and Mental Health: By minimizing trauma and fostering a sense of safety and belonging, kinship care demonstrably improves children’s behavioral and mental health outcomes. It supports positive self-esteem and provides a bridge for older youth to maintain lasting family connections into adulthood. The Nevada Kinship Care Program prioritizes the holistic well-being of children in care.

Navigating Licensed vs. Unlicensed Kinship Care in Nevada

Within the Nevada Kinship Care Program, relatives have the option to become licensed or remain unlicensed foster caregivers. This decision impacts the level of financial and supportive resources available. While both licensed and unlicensed kinship caregivers provide essential care, understanding the differences is crucial for making informed choices.

Unlicensed kinship caregivers in Nevada typically receive significantly lower reimbursements to cover the costs of caring for a child compared to licensed foster parents. However, the Nevada Division of Child and Family Services (DCFS) strongly encourages relatives to pursue foster care licensure.

Benefits of Becoming a Licensed Kinship Foster Caregiver in Nevada:

Full Foster Care Rate: Licensed kinship caregivers receive the full foster care rate for each child, providing crucial financial assistance to meet the increased household expenses. This financial support is a key component of the Nevada Kinship Care Program.
Dedicated Licensing Worker Support: A dedicated licensing worker is assigned to licensed kinship families, offering ongoing support, guidance, and assistance in navigating the system and accessing resources. This personalized support is a significant advantage of the Nevada Kinship Care Program.
Access to Ongoing Services: Licensed caregivers gain access to a range of support services, including respite care (temporary childcare to provide breaks), ongoing training, and support groups. These services are designed to enhance caregiver well-being and effectiveness within the Nevada Kinship Care Program.
Enhanced Understanding of the Child Welfare System: Licensing provides access to training and information that helps caregivers understand the complexities of the court system and child welfare processes, empowering them to advocate effectively for the children in their care. The Nevada Kinship Care Program aims to equip caregivers with the knowledge they need.
Peer Support and Mentorship: Licensed caregivers can connect with support groups and experienced mentors who provide valuable peer support, practical advice, and a sense of community. This network of support is invaluable for navigating the challenges of kinship care within the Nevada system.
Flexibility in Care: Becoming licensed does not obligate relatives to care for children outside their family. However, it does open the possibility of providing care for other children in need, should the caregiver choose to expand their role. The focus remains on supporting family-based care within the Nevada Kinship Care Program.

While licensure offers significant advantages, it may not be the right path for every relative. The decision should be made on an individual basis, considering the family’s circumstances and needs. Discussing options with an Agency licensing worker is highly recommended to make an informed decision aligned with the goals of the Nevada Kinship Care Program.

The Nevada Foster Home Licensing Process for Kinship Caregivers

For relatives in Nevada who decide to become licensed kinship foster caregivers, understanding the licensing process is essential. The process generally takes approximately three to six months, depending on the efficiency of completing home inspections, background checks, and providing required documentation. The Nevada Kinship Care Program streamlines this process as much as possible for relatives.

To initiate the licensing process, relatives must complete and submit a foster home license application. Licensure confirms that the caregiver meets the standards outlined in the Nevada Revised Statute (NRS 424) and Nevada Administrative Code (NAC 424.165). Key requirements include:

Fingerprinting and Criminal History Check: All adults (18 and older) residing in the home must undergo fingerprinting for a criminal history records check and obtain a fingerprint clearance card, as mandated by NRS 424.033. This is a standard safety measure within the Nevada Kinship Care Program.
Child Protective Services (CPS) Clearance: CPS clearance is required for all adults in the household to ensure no history of abuse or neglect, in accordance with NRS 432B.594. Child safety is paramount in the Nevada Kinship Care Program.
Home Inspection and Home Study: A licensing worker will conduct at least one home visit to assess safety and complete an initial home study. This ensures the home environment meets basic safety standards for children in care under the Nevada Kinship Care Program.
Foster Home Application: Submission of a completed and signed foster home application to the Agency is required to formally initiate the licensing process.
Personal References: Providing five personal references with contact information allows the Agency to gather further insights into the applicant’s suitability as a caregiver.
Orientation and Pre-Service Training: Completion of foster parent orientation and pre-service training sessions, as specified in subsections 1, 2, and 5 of NAC 424.270, is mandatory. This training equips caregivers with essential knowledge and skills to effectively participate in the Nevada Kinship Care Program.

Additional Licensing Considerations in Nevada:

Marital Status and Employment: Applicants can be single or married (if married, both spouses must apply). Full or part-time employment is permitted.
Residency and Housing: Applicants must be legal residents of the United States and can own, lease, or rent various types of housing (homes, apartments, etc.).
Home Safety and Suitability: Meeting health and safety requirements and addressing any identified issues during the home inspection is essential.
Transportation and Communication: Reliable transportation and communication methods (for emergencies, Agency contact, etc.) are necessary.
Adequate Space: Sufficient bedroom space and beds for all household members and foster children are required.
General Health and Income: Applicants must be in good general health and demonstrate adequate income to meet their own family’s needs, separate from foster care payments.
Compliance and Discipline: Adherence to Agency discipline regulations and all licensing rules is mandatory.

Waivers and Flexibility for Kinship Caregivers:

The Nevada Kinship Care Program recognizes the unique circumstances of kinship care and allows licensing workers to request waivers for certain non-safety licensing standards on a case-by-case basis. This flexibility acknowledges that relatives may not always meet all standard foster care requirements (e.g., space accommodations). However, waivers are not granted for standards related to criminal history, CPS history, or legal residency. This ensures child safety remains the top priority within the Nevada Kinship Care Program while accommodating kinship placements.

To begin the licensing journey, relatives should inform their Agency licensing worker of their interest. The Agency will then provide information on upcoming orientation sessions in their area. Some orientation sessions even offer childcare to facilitate participation.

For relatives who choose to remain unlicensed kinship foster caregivers, the basic requirements are less extensive but still ensure a minimum level of safety and suitability:

Age: Must be at least 21 years old.
Marital Status: Can be single or married.
Fingerprinting and CPS Clearance: Similar to licensed caregivers, fingerprinting, criminal history checks, and CPS clearance are required for all adults in the household.
General Health: Must be in good general health.
Initial Home Inspection: Completion of an initial home inspection with a licensing worker is necessary.

Expectations and Responsibilities of Nevada Kinship Caregivers

Whether licensed or unlicensed, Nevada kinship caregivers assume significant responsibilities in providing a nurturing and stable environment for children in their care. The Nevada Kinship Care Program emphasizes clear expectations to ensure the well-being of children and the success of kinship placements.

Suitability and Home Study:

A history of serious crimes by any adult household member may disqualify a relative from being a kinship foster caregiver. Convictions, pending trials, or past offenses against children or vulnerable adults, serious violent crimes, arson, felony substance misuse within the past 7 years, kidnapping, or robbery require detailed discussion with a licensing worker. Some crimes will automatically disqualify an applicant, while others may be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, always prioritizing child safety within the Nevada Kinship Care Program.

An Agency representative will conduct a home study to evaluate the suitability of the home and caregivers. This involves:

Home Safety Assessment: Ensuring the home is clean and safe for children.
Interviews: Interviews with the caregiver and all household members to assess their understanding and preparedness for kinship care.
Reference Checks: Contacting personal references provided by the applicant.

The home study report will document:

Home Safety: Assessment of the home’s safety for children.
Caregiver Capacity: Evaluation of the caregiver’s ability to meet the child’s needs.
Discipline Approach: Understanding the caregiver’s approach to child discipline.
Household Member Perspectives: Views of other household members regarding the placement.
Existing Family Care: Assessment of how the caregiver manages their existing family responsibilities.
Caregiver Health: Evaluation of the caregiver’s physical health to ensure they are capable of providing care.

Ongoing Responsibilities of Kinship Caregivers in Nevada:

Kinship caregivers are expected to provide care and supervision comparable to that of parents for their own children. Additional responsibilities within the Nevada Kinship Care Program include:

Safe Home Commitment: Providing a safe and nurturing home environment for the child.
Case Plan Support: Supporting the goals of the child’s case plan and providing services outlined in the plan. Collaboration with the Agency is a key aspect of the Nevada Kinship Care Program.
Agency Cooperation: Cooperating with the Agency by allowing scheduled and unscheduled home visits from the licensing worker.
Confidentiality: Maintaining confidentiality regarding the child’s and family’s information as required by Nevada law, including limiting information sharing even with other family members. The foster care worker will advise on permissible information sharing with professionals.
Parent and Family Collaboration: When safe and appropriate, working directly with the child’s parents and other family members to support the child’s best interests and permanency goals. Family reunification is often a primary objective of the Nevada Kinship Care Program.
Non-Physical Discipline: Using non-physical, age-appropriate discipline methods as per NAC 424.530. Physical discipline is strictly prohibited.
Healthcare and Service Coordination: Assisting the foster care worker in ensuring the child receives regular medical and dental care, immunizations, therapy, and other necessary services. Following through with recommended medications and counseling.
Education and School Enrollment: Enrolling the child in school, if needed, and providing the Agency with education-related information (grades, testing, recommendations).
Progress Reporting and Communication: Reporting the child’s progress and any concerns to the foster care worker and being available for scheduled home visits.
Court and Meeting Attendance: Attending court hearings and family team meetings to participate in discussions about the child’s services, placement, and case plans. Caregiver input is valued in these meetings within the Nevada Kinship Care Program.
Transportation and Visitation: Providing transportation for appointments and ensuring ongoing visitation and contact with siblings and other family members, as directed by the court and service plan. The Agency can also provide assistance with these aspects. Adhering to court and service plan instructions regarding supervised and unsupervised visits is crucial, with potential legal consequences for non-compliance for both caregivers and parents.

Pathways to Permanency for Children in Nevada Kinship Care

The ultimate goal for every child in the Nevada Kinship Care Program is to achieve permanency – a stable and secure long-term home. When reunification with parents is not possible within a reasonable timeframe (typically 12-18 months under federal law), the Agency and kinship caregivers must explore alternative permanency options. Federal law mandates that relatives are prioritized when considering permanency options.

If parents are unable to make the necessary changes for safe reunification, permanency options within the Nevada Kinship Care Program include:

Relative Adoption: Adoption by relatives offers the most permanent solution. Relatives become legal parents with all associated rights and responsibilities, while biological parents’ legal rights are terminated. Adoption subsidies may be available, potentially including monthly maintenance payments based on the child’s needs, up to the foster care rate. Adoption subsidies must be approved before finalization.
Guardianship: Guardianship is considered when reunification or adoption are not in the child’s best interest. It grants legal and physical custody to the guardian, allowing them to make decisions regarding schooling, medical care, and other aspects of daily life. Guardianship does not terminate parental rights but suspends them, offering a stable and legally recognized long-term arrangement. KinGAP (Kinship Guardianship Assistance Payment) subsidies may be available to eligible guardians to provide financial support.

Permanency decisions are complex and made collaboratively by the child and family team (including the kinship caregiver) and the court. Open communication with the Agency worker about permanency options is essential to ensure caregivers are prepared and informed as these critical decisions are made within the Nevada Kinship Care Program.

Support Systems and Services for Nevada Kinship Caregivers

Recognizing the unique challenges and transitions kinship caregivers face, the Nevada Kinship Care Program provides a range of support services for both licensed and unlicensed caregivers. These services aim to empower caregivers, enhance child well-being, and strengthen kinship placements.

Available Support and Services may include:

Parenting Skills Training: To enhance caregiving abilities and address specific child needs.
Behavioral and Mental Health Services: For children and potentially caregivers, to address trauma and promote mental well-being.
Agency-Assisted Transportation: When available, to help with transportation to medical and other appointments.
Community Program Referrals: Referrals to community-based programs offering emotional support, mentoring, practical and legal advice, wellness activities, and child-focused programs for kinship families.
Respite Care: Temporary childcare services, ranging from a few hours to overnight or weekends, to provide caregivers with breaks and opportunities for self-care.

The Nevada Kinship Navigator Program:

The Kinship Navigator Program is a crucial resource within the Nevada Kinship Care Program, specifically designed to support kinship caregivers. It addresses the unique challenges faced by relatives stepping into caregiving roles, many of whom are unprepared for the financial, legal, and emotional complexities.

The Kinship Navigator Program provides free services to anyone in Nevada raising a relative’s or fictive kin’s child. It focuses on:

Addressing Immediate Needs: Providing support to meet the immediate needs of kinship children and families.
Achieving Legal Permanency: Working towards the most stable and permanent legal status for the family.
Financial Support Access: Ensuring families receive available financial assistance and benefits.
Enhancing Parenting Quality: Improving the quality of parenting provided by kinship caregivers through resources and training.

For more information about the Kinship Navigator Program, resources are available at:

The Nevada Kinship Resource Centers:

The Kinship Resource Center offers direct, in-person support in both Southern and Northern Nevada:

Southern Nevada Kinship Center:		Northern Nevada Kinship Center:
Location: 3925 W Cheyenne, Suite 401, North Las Vegas, NV 89032		Location: 1 E Liberty, Suite 600, Reno, NV 89501
Hours: Monday-Thursday 9 AM-6:30 PM; Friday-Saturday 9 AM- 4 PM		Hours: Monday-Thursday 9 AM- 4 PM

Appointments are required and can be scheduled for in-person or remote consultations.

Kinship Helpline – (844)-810-1667:

The Kinship Helpline provides immediate phone support to answer basic kinship care questions, connect callers with resources, and schedule appointments with Foster Kinship Family Advocates for family evaluations and additional services. Helpline hours are Monday-Thursday 9 AM -6:30 PM; Friday-Saturday 9 AM-4:00 PM.

Quality Parenting Initiative (QPI) – Nevada:

The Quality Parenting Initiative (QPI) in Nevada is a system-wide approach focused on ensuring excellent parenting for every child in foster care, including kinship care. QPI emphasizes that children in foster care have experienced trauma and require strong, positive relationships with caregivers to heal and thrive.

QPI principles within the Nevada Kinship Care Program include:

Caregiver Voice and Collaboration: Empowering caregivers to have a voice in the child’s care and fostering collaboration between birth families, caregivers, Agency staff, and other stakeholders.
Caregiver Support and Training: Providing caregivers with the necessary support and training to effectively parent children with complex needs, understand expectations, and navigate the child welfare system.
Clear Communication and System Alignment: Clearly defining expectations for caregivers, communicating these expectations across the system, and aligning policies and practices to support excellent parenting.

For further information on the Quality Parenting Initiative (QPI), visit:

Training and Skill Development for Nevada Kinship Caregivers:

Kinship caregivers often take on caregiving responsibilities during or after family crises and may need to develop new skills to effectively support children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. The Nevada Kinship Care Program recognizes this need and emphasizes training and resource provision.

Common concerns and areas where kinship caregivers in Nevada seek support include:

Financial Security: Accessing financial assistance and understanding available benefits.
Home Preparation: Preparing their homes to accommodate children (furniture, space).
Child Behavioral and Emotional Needs: Addressing trauma-related behaviors and emotional challenges.
Education and Healthcare Decisions: Navigating educational and healthcare systems for the child.
Family Relationship Dynamics: Managing disruptions and changes in family relationships.
Childcare and After-School Care: Finding affordable childcare and after-school options.
Agency Interaction: Effectively interacting with the Child Welfare Agency.

The Nevada Kinship Care Program, through QPI and other initiatives, provides training and resources to address these concerns, including stress management, personal health, emotional stability, and connections to community resources. Additional information and resources can be found by visiting:

By understanding the Nevada Kinship Care Program, its benefits, processes, and available support, relatives in Nevada can confidently navigate the journey of kinship care and provide safe, stable, and loving homes for children in need. The program is designed to empower families, strengthen communities, and prioritize the well-being of Nevada’s children.