As a result of the Wisconsin Works (W-2) Welfare Reform in 1997, there has been a dramatic change in the manner in which payments are made to individuals who are caring for minor children.

In order to qualify for the Kinship Care Program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Applicant must have a relationship to the child as defined in s.48.57(3m)2.
• All persons in the home must pass a criminal background check.
• The child(ren) is/are living with the applicant because there is a need to protect them from possible abuse or neglect by a parent.
• Applicant must cooperate with the Kinship Program and with all program requirements.

In order to ensure fairness and consistency in the Kinship Program, it is occasionally necessary to establish a Waiting List.  When the combination of current and prospective Kinship Care placements equals the maximum caseload capacity, all applicants will be informed of the Waiting List possibility.  Applications will be opened on a first-come, first-served basis, depending upon the date and time received by this agency.  However, all court-ordered Kinship Care cases will be served upon receipt of the application and will not be placed on the Waiting List.

If you would like additional information about the Kinship Care Program, contact John Grycowski at (262) 638-6497.

If you wish to apply for Kinship Care, please contact:

Racine County Human Services Department
1717 Taylor Avenue
Racine, WI  53403
(262) 638-6321
(800) 242-4202

or email

IandA@goRacine.org

or visit

www.dhfs.wisconsin.gov/Children/Kinship