Enhancing Support for Caregivers: Kentucky Kinship Resource Center Expands Its Reach

Reporting from Lexington, Kentucky, the College of Social Work (CoSW) at the University of Kentucky is enhancing its support for caregivers across the state. The innovative Kentucky Kinship Resource Center (KKRC), based at the University, is expanding its services further into the caregiving community.

Expanding the Support Network

Now open to all caregivers, the expansion of the KKRC is set to provide resources to those caring for young people of relatives or friends, whether they have custody, are fostering, or otherwise. As Sheila Rentfrow, the Director of KKRC, explains, providing support for all caregivers allows those struggling with the complexities of kinship care to connect with others facing similar challenges. With this reach, caregivers from all walks of life can connect with others and receive invaluable support, regardless of their kinship journey’s stage.

The Need for Kinship Support

Data suggests that nearly 2.7 million young people are being raised by relatives across the United States, with the Commonwealth of Kentucky having one of the highest kinship rates. While kinship care can provide numerous benefits for children, including healthier behavioural and emotional outcomes, research is starting to uncover the hardships faced by relative caregivers.

The CoSW is dedicated to supporting kinship caregivers within Kentucky and has been an advocate for kinship care for an extended period. Apart from conducting necessary research, the college also kickstarted the KKRC in March 2020 to provide much-needed support to kinship families, offering training programs, peer support initiatives, and legal advocates.

The Future for KKRC

Through a partnership with the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, the KKRC has already implemented a program dedicated to enhancing care quality and reducing the risk of placement instability. With the program expansion, these services can reach more families across the Commonwealth.

Recognizing Excellence

In 2023, the KKRC’s contributions were nationally recognized as it was named the “Parent Group of the Year” by the North American Council on Adoptable Children. This prestigious award is presented to associations and groups that excel in supporting adoptive, foster, and kinship families.

Further strengthening its position, the KKRC was approved to certify kinship peer supporters according to Kentucky law, effectively meeting state certification requirements. This allows them to contribute significantly to the state’s workforce and behavioural health needs.

Reflecting on the Impact

“As a kinship caregiver, I wasn’t able to access programs like KKRC”, said Jessica Adkins, a kinship caregiver and certified Kinship Peer Supporter. “For many of our caregivers, it’s such a relief to know they’re not alone and to know there is help. That’s what KKRC is all about.”

For kinship caregivers in Kentucky needing support, the expanded KKRC program will provide the necessary aid. By meeting caregivers where they are, the Kentucky Kinship Resource Center signifies caring for others does not have to be a solitary journey.