Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Kinship Support topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board approves $600,000 kinship caregiver support agreement to expand services for grandparents
Summary
The board adopted Resolution 44325 to authorize $600,000 for a kinship caregiver support program partnering Franklin County Children Services, Office on Aging and Job and Family Services; staff said the program will continue supporting about 400 kinship families and commissioners requested clarification on eligible services and enrollment.
The Franklin County Board of Commissioners on June 10 approved a $600,000 agreement among Franklin County Children Services, the Office on Aging and the Department of Job and Family Services to expand kinship caregiver supports focused on older caregivers.
Office on Aging deputy director Tamara Hartley said the program targets caregivers age 55 and older and aims to equip kinship families with practical knowledge and services ranging from social supports to navigation of health resources. Hartley said prior referrals numbered in the hundreds and staff expect the agreement to continue supporting about 400 kinship families led by older adults.
During discussion, Deputy County Administrator Joy Bivens asked what the funds will cover and whether enrollment in the Office on Aging is required to obtain supportive services. Bivens asked specifically whether the agreement pays for items such as beds, childcare, or mental-health services and requested that staff post clear information on the county website so residents will know what resources are available. Hartley and other staff responded that they would clarify covered services and outreach plans and confirmed they would work to post details for the community.
Commissioners moved and adopted Resolution 44325. The transcript records that this is a continuation and expansion of an existing partnership between Children Services and Office on Aging, and staff said Children Services provided prior funding (about $300,000 last year) to reach households that may not otherwise access Children Services directly.
Next steps: staff indicated they will provide a clearer breakdown of covered services and enrollment requirements and will post program information online so kinship caregivers can learn how to access support.
