Here’s an update:
Education Day:
We had 26 caregivers and professionals come to Albany from all over New York State to talk to 18 different legislators and staff. Thank you to everyone who came from far and wide (and from close by, too) to take part in this day and expand the conversation about kinship care to our leaders in the legislature. We received positive feedback in all of our meetings, and feel confident our budget requests were heard. We believe this can be a great launching point to continue to bring focus on the importance of supporting kinship families in our communities all throughout the state. Here are some pictures from the day:
In addition to the meetings we had, both the Assembly and the Senate passed resolutions declaring September as Kinship Care Month (you can see the resolution language on our downloads page, HERE). We want to thank Assemblywoman Jaffee and Senator Montgomery for their support, for introducing this resolution, and for providing a platform for the state to focus in on kinship caregivers during the month of September!
2020 Census Webinar Opportunity:
The Census is an important part of defining policy for kinship care in NY. The Census collects data specific to kinship care – specifically asking for Grandparents raising grandchildren with no parent present. This helps us estimate the number of children who are in kinship care arrangements in NY. With that being said – you can help your community take part in the Census, and our partners at the Schuyler Center are hosting a webinar to help you learn more. Here’s some information on it:”Join the Schuyler Center and the NYS Council on Children and Families for an informative presentation on how agencies serving children and families can prepare for the census. In 30 minutes, learn about the importance of the census, tools you can use to educate staff and families about the census and where you can find materials and educational resources.”
What: Resources You Can Use to #CountAllKids Webinar
When: Monday, March 9 from 11:00 am – 11:30 am
Register: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_rq0fky2lQXqgmudsIPpYAA
Comptroller’s “Direct Custody” Audit:
The NYS Comptroller’s office released a press release about an audit they conducted of 1017 “Direct Custody” placements by child welfare agencies. This article refers directly to our population of kinship caregivers, and calls for the state to do more to ensure kids are safe, and families are better equipped to take children on. This is an important part of the discussion around funding support services for these families. You can see the press release HERE.
Reminder:
If you want your agency/program to be listed on our new website, please head over to our Member Page and fill out the form to have your agency/program listed as a member! There is no fee associated with becoming a member, its just a way to grow your organization’s online impact!
NYS Kincare Coalition 