September is National Kinship Care Month, and we’re immensely proud to recognize the incredible individuals who step up to care for children within their families during times of crisis! These caregivers—grandparents, aunts, uncles, siblings, and even close family friends—often take on this role unexpectedly, yet they do so with compassion and selflessness.
What’s even more inspiring is that many of our kinship caregivers go on to become licensed foster parents, continuing to provide stability and support to other children in need. Their impact is incredible, and we’re truly grateful for the difference they make every single day in these children’s lives!
To show our gratitude this month, we’re spotlighting four of our amazing CHA kinship caregiver households whose stories reflect the heart of kinship care.
“It has truly been a blessing to wake up every day to see our grandchildren smiling and just enjoying the opportunity of being kids. We are so thankful and appreciative of CHA and all the support. It feels like our missing puzzle pieces have been found, put together, and now we are whole.” –Pam and Kindale
Meet Pam and Kindale
Pam and Kindale welcomed their three grandchildren into their home in August 2024. What began as kinship care quickly grew into something deeper. With our support, they became licensed foster parents in March 2025 and are now on the path to adoption.
Throughout their journey, Pam and Kindale have leaned into learning by asking questions, attending training, and embracing the support available to them. They’ve learned how to help their grandchildren navigate trauma, how to care for themselves as caregivers, and how being licensed opens doors to helpful resources.
They mentioned that all they want is the best for their grandchildren, including love, stability, and a great education. The hugs, the kisses, and the words “I love you mimi, I love you paw paw” is priceless for them. Looking back, they would not change a thing about this process. It has given them the best gift: taking care of their grandchildren!
“We had the time, the space, and an SUV big enough for everyone. We knew how devastating it would be for the siblings to be separated. We wanted to do whatever we could to help keep them together.” –Kristy and Chris
Meet Kristy and Chris
Chris and Kristy were placed in a kinship arrangement with four siblings from the Christian school where Kristy teaches. When they learned the children would be separated due to a lack of available foster homes, they knew they had to act.
With the support of their daughter, son-in-law, and Kristy’s parents, their household grew overnight from a few to eight. It was a major transition, but one they embraced wholeheartedly. “While the transition has certainly come with its challenges,” Kristy said, “it has been one of the most rewarding experiences of our lives.”
But despite their committment, Chris and Kristy felt overlooked by DSS and the GAL office. That’s when they made the decision to become licensed foster parents. We were proud to step in and provide the guidance, structure, and encouragement they needed to become licensed.
“Children’s Hope Alliance has been nothing short of a blessing,” Kristy told us. “Their support has made all the difference.” Now, nearly a year into their journey, Chris and Kristy can’t imagine life without the children. The love and strength these siblings have shown continues to inspire them.
“As his Godparents, we already shared a special bond with him and felt strongly that providing a safe and stable home was our responsibility. We knew that taking him in was not simply a choice, but a commitment to his wellbeing and future.” –Ali’ssia & Makeyba
Meet Ali’ssia and Makeyba
When best friends Ali’ssia and Makeyba learned that their 11-year-old Godson was facing challenges at home, they knew they had to step in and help. They felt that it was their responsibility to offer him a safe and supportive home, knowing that they already had a close and special bond with him.
Transitioning into full-time caregiving meant adjusting to school routines, homework, meals, and the emotional needs of a growing child. While there were hard days, they also experienced many meaningful moments that brought them closer together.
The foster care process brought new tasks like home visits, training, and paperwork. With help from one of our supportive caseworkers, they were able to manage each step. They mentioned that “Her involvement has truly made a difference in helping us continue forward.” This experience also helped them grow in patience and understanding. They shared “While the foster process has been demanding, it has also been a blessing that also reshaped our understanding of family.” Their faith has also grown as they have leaned into their spiritual strength to get them through the difficult days. They know that what matters most is the love, safety, and stability that they can provide to their godson, and that is what has provided them with a sense of purpose in this journey.
“Being a kinship family has impacted us in so many positive ways. It has deepened our compassion, strengthened our bonds, and reminded us of the importance of stepping in when children need a safe place to land.” –Heather and John
Meet Heather and John
John, Heather and their 3 children have had the privilege of welcoming 2 siblings that they previously knew into their home through kinship care. Their journey has been both meaningful and rewarding, and it has allowed them to give the children the stability they need.
Thank You to All Kinship Caregivers
We are so proud to be part of the stories of these incredible families, and we know there are many more caregivers out there doing the same quiet, powerful work every day. Thank YOU for all that you do! Kinship care is a beautiful expression of family, and we’re here to support you on your journey.
If you’re currently in a kinship care situation and wondering how to access additional support, we encourage you to reach out to us. Becoming a licensed foster parent with us will open the door to valuable resources, training, and financial assistance that can help guide your journey. We will be there for you every step of the way!
Reach out to us here: www.childrenshopealliance.org/fostertoday 🧡
