Kinship: Raising a Child Not Born to You
Every child deserves the support of a loving family — even if that support comes from someone other than the child’s birth parents. Extended family members are rarely prepared to take over care of a child relative, but Catholic Charities can help you navigate the legal, financial, and emotional challenges of assuming this responsibility.
If you’ve recently become the caregiver of a young relative, Kinship Navigators can help you overcome barriers to:
- Navigating government systems
- Seeking legal advice
- Receiving information
- Enrolling students in school
- Accessing medical coverage and care
- Qualifying for financial support
- Connecting to behavioral health resources
Our navigators can also help you with unexpected expenses for your child’s food, clothing, extracurricular activities, legal fees, and more once a year if qualified. Contact a Kinship Navigator to learn more or request services.
Contact & Information
Kittitas, Yakima, Benton, Franklin, Columbia, Garfield, Asotin, and Walla Walla Counties
Eligibility: Kinship Caregivers
Cost: Free
Commitment: As needed
Contact: Mary Pleger: mpleger@catholiccharitiescw.org