Updated 2026 Kinship Care Benefits Handout by Texas CASA

Being removed from a parent’s care can be traumatic for children and youth involved in the child welfare system. Placement with a relative or trusted family friend (also known as fictive kin) can help maintain important connections, stability and a sense of belonging.

However, kinship caregivers often face greater financial and logistical challenges and historically have had less access to supports than licensed foster homes. Texas offers several short‑term and long‑term assistance options for kinship caregivers, depending on the caregiver’s circumstances and permanency goals.