Bill > A00531

This bill establishes a statewide kinship navigator program within the Office of Children and Family Services to support kinship caregivers, who are relatives or guardians caring for children who are not their own. The program will provide comprehensive assistance including referral services, free legal consultations, help applying for public benefits like Medicaid and SNAP, and information about available services. The program will be administered by the commissioner, who will divide the state into 7-12 regions and make grants to community-based organizations to operate the program. Key responsibilities include coordinating services across multiple state agencies, providing information about benefits and eligibility, compiling statistical data, operating a toll-free helpline, offering local respite services, and providing training for kinship caregivers. The program aims to help kinship caregivers navigate complex systems and access resources to support children in their care, with a focus on consolidating existing programs and expanding service provisions to meet federally approved standards. The bill defines kinship caregivers broadly to include relative guardians and prospective caregivers, and emphasizes a comprehensive, supportive approach to assisting these critical family support networks.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A531