Become a Licensed Relative or Kinship Caregiver

You’ve already stepped up for family. Let KVC step up for you.

Caring for a relative or someone you know who is in foster care is a big responsibility and you don’t have to do it alone. Becoming a licensed relative or kinship caregiver is the next step to ensure you have the support, financial assistance and resources you need to care for a child or teen. Licensing helps children remain safely with family while giving caregivers added stability, guidance and peace of mind.

Benefits of Becoming a Licensed Relative or Kinship Caregiver

When you become licensed, you gain access to expanded support designed to help your family thrive.

• Increased financial support. Licensed relative and kinship caregivers receive the full daily rate the child qualifies for, helping cover everyday needs like groceries, clothing and school supplies.
• Continued childcare assistance. Childcare support remains available to help families balance work, school and caregiving responsibilities.
• Ongoing support from a coordinated KVC team. You’ll continue receiving one-on-one guidance and support from staff who know your family and help you navigate licensing and ongoing requirements.
• Extra resources when you need them most. From school supplies and holiday gifts to sports gear and other essentials, our team and community partners step up to support both kinship and licensed relative caregivers throughout the year.
• In addition, licensed caregivers have access to expanded supports, including: Foster Family Therapist support
  • Licensed caregivers can access a Foster Family Therapist who provides guidance, coaching and emotional support to help navigate challenges, strengthen family relationships and support the wellbeing of everyone in the home.
  • This ensures you’re not just meeting daily needs, but also supported emotionally and relationally as you care for a child or teen.

The Licensing Process

We keep the licensing process as clear and supportive as possible and walk with you every step of the way.

Training That Prepares You

These classes are designed to give you the tools, confidence and connection you need, not just to check a box. You’ll complete one training path that fits your situation, along with required safety courses.

You’ll choose between: 

• MAPP Foundations / Deciding Together – Weekly classes (3 hours/week for MAPP or 3 hours/week for DT) focused on understanding children’s needs and building trust, stability and connection.
• Kinship Path – 2 hours per week for 10 weeks, focused on the unique experiences of kinship caregiving.

Required trainings:

• First Aid – So you’re prepared for everyday and emergencies.
• Medication Administration – Practical skills to help keep kids healthy and safe.

What Licensing Means for Your Home

This isn’t about having a “perfect” house or apartment, it’s about making sure kids stay safe! That means a few simple safety steps, like: 

That includes a few simple safety steps, such as:

• Smoke detectors in bedrooms
• A safe, comfortable bed and space for the child
• Medications and cleaning supplies locked up
• Firearms and ammunition locked separately
• Baby gates for children under age 2

If your home doesn’t quite meet every requirement, don’t worry! Waivers are often possible, and our team will clearly explain expectations and help you make changes if needed.

Who Will Support You

After licensing, families are supported by a coordinated KVC team, so you don’t have to manage multiple systems on your own.

• Licensing staff guide you through the licensing process, including home walkthroughs, paperwork and ongoing licensing requirements.
• CPA staff provide ongoing foster parent support after licensure, helping you navigate day-to-day caregiving, access resources and feel supported throughout your fostering journey.

Our teams work together behind the scenes to ensure clear communication and consistent support.

You’re Not Alone in This 

Licensing may sound like a lot at first, but with KVC walking beside you, it’ll be simple. It’s one of the best steps you can take to give your loved one stability and give yourself the support you deserve. 

Contact our Recruitment Supervisor by filling out the form below:

After you submit the form, a KVC team member will follow up to answer any questions and guide you through the next steps.