Join us on Thursday, September 18th, 2025, for an informative seminar and learn about Kinship Care, and why it can be a better option for kids in foster care

• Thursday, September 18th, 2025, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

• Rawlings Library, Bret Kelly Room A
  100 E. Abriendo Ave, Pueblo CO 81004

CLICK HERE to RSVP at our Facebook Events page. 

With the passage of SB24-008, Kinship Foster Care Homes, the State of Colorado has expanded services to better support kinship foster families. These changes include the option to be licensed by a private agency as an alternative to going through the county department of human services.

For the first time, kinship caregivers—such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, teachers, coaches, church companions, or close family friends—qualify for the same services and supports as traditional foster families. These services may include:

• Crisis intervention
• Mental health treatment
• School tutoring
• Financial stipends
• And more

In addition, kinship certification has been simplified to make it easier for families and communities to stay together.

“This is a major step forward in ensuring kids in foster care can remain with relatives or close family friends instead of being placed with strangers,” said Ben Schoch, Director of Foster Care at Kids Crossing. “Research shows that entering foster care is far less traumatic when children can stay with family or someone they already know.”

Kinship care has long been a cornerstone in many families and communities, particularly across diverse racial and ethnic groups. It helps children maintain strong family bonds, safeguards cultural heritage, preserves community connections, and reduces the trauma of separation.