Article by Julie Bowman, Department of Family Services
(Posted 2026 May)
Across Fairfax County, many grandparents, relatives, and close family friends are quietly stepping into an essential role: raising children when parents are unable to do so.
If you are caring for a grandchild, niece, nephew, younger sibling, or the child of someone close to you, you are considered a kinship caregiver. These caregivers provide children with the comfort of familiar faces, routines, and cultural connections during times of uncertainty. But while this role can be deeply meaningful, it can also be challenging to navigate alone.
To support these families, Fairfax County Department of Family Services (DFS) and Formed Families Forward (FFF) have partnered to create the Kinship Assistance, Resources, and Education (KARE) program. KARE is designed specifically to connect kinship caregivers with information, guidance, and practical supports that strengthen families and help caregivers meet children’s needs.
At the heart of the program are Kinship Navigators (KNs) – staff from Formed Families Forward who are available to talk one-on-one and help caregivers find and access community resources. KNs work closely with families to understand their unique circumstances and help them navigate a broad range of systems, services, and questions.
Support from KARE may include:
- Basic Needs and Financial Resources – Assistance locating programs for food, clothing, utilities, and other essentials.
- Emergency Assistance Funds – Short-term help for unexpected crises or sudden household changes.
- Support Groups and Parenting Education – Classes, workshops, and groups tailored to the experiences of grandparents and relatives raising children today.
- Respite and Recreational Opportunities – Access to activities for children and youth, along with breaks for caregivers.
- School and Special Education Support – Help understanding school processes, special education services, and how to advocate for a child’s learning needs.
- Child Care Subsidy Information – Guidance on programs that may help reduce child care costs.
- Benefits Assistance – Support navigating TANF, SNAP, WIC, Medicaid, and other benefits programs.
- Legal and Custody Resources – Direction on where to seek legal guidance regarding custody, guardianship, or related arrangements.
- Mental and Behavioral Health Connections – Information on services that support children’s and caregivers’ emotional well-being.
Kinship care often provides children with stability at a time when they need it most. But the demands of caregiving – emotionally, physically, and financially – can be significant. The KARE program is here to ensure that caregivers do not have to manage these responsibilities alone.
If you are raising a child for a relative or friend, or if you know someone who is, support is just a phone call or email away:
- KARE Program Information: formedfamiliesforward.org/services/kare-kinship-assistance-resources-and-education
- Kinship Resource Line: 703-324-4534
- Email: KARE@formedfamiliesforward.org
- Reasonable Accommodations: 703-324-5730 (TTY: 711/Virginia Relay)
You are providing a child with safety, stability, and love during a critical time. Let KARE help support you in this important role.
This article is part of the Golden Gazette monthly newsletter which covers a variety of topics and community news concerning older adults and caregivers in Fairfax County. Are you new to the Golden Gazette? Don’t miss out on future newsletters! Subscribe to get the electronic or free printed version mailed to you. Have a suggestion for a topic? Share it in an email or call 703-324-GOLD (4653).