Georgia Expanded Resources for Kinship Caregivers

The state has highlighted support programs during National Kinship Care Month this September.

Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Child Care

Bold vector editorial illustration of house keys and a dogwood branch, representing support for Georgia kinship caregivers. — The Georgia Department of Human Services is promoting new financial and legal resources to assist residents who act as full-time kinship caregivers. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you believe your local government provides sufficient support for kinship caregivers?

The Georgia Department of Human Services is promoting essential resources for kinship caregivers, who provide full-time care for children when parents cannot. These offerings include financial assistance and legal guidance for residents across the state, including Chattooga County.

Why it matters

These programs are designed to support relatives who step into primary caregiving roles, ensuring they have access to the necessary financial and legal tools to stabilize households. By centralizing these services, the state aims to better assist families navigating the complexities of child rearing.

The CAPS program provides child-care financial assistance for children up to age 13, with eligibility extending to age 18 for children with special needs. Caregivers can reach the Department of Human Services for support at 877-423-4746.

The players

Georgia Department of Human Services

This state agency oversees the provision of social, financial, and legal support services for residents throughout Georgia.

Children's Healthcare of Atlanta

This healthcare system provides pediatric services and hosts weekly educational programs for caregivers in the region.

Generations United

This organization advocates for intergenerational programs and will conduct a webinar on advocacy for caregivers.

The details

Caregivers can access financial, legal, and support services through the Kinship Navigator Program and the Georgia Kinship Care Portal. Additionally, the Georgia Senior Legal Hotline and other regional agencies provide specialized advice and legal referrals for those managing full-time caregiving duties.

September 2026 marks National Kinship Care Month.
The Advocacy 101 webinar is scheduled for September 24, 2026, from 6 PM to 7 PM.

Culture Shift

The state's outreach initiative follows the annual precedent set by National Kinship Care Month to increase public awareness of caregiver resources. This aligns with broader societal shifts toward formalizing support structures for non-parental caregivers in aging and child-rearing contexts.

Kinship caregivers in Chattooga County can utilize these resources to secure financial aid for child care or obtain legal referrals. These programs simplify the process of finding support by centralizing information through the department's hotline and online portal.

The takeaway

Caregivers should utilize the state's centralized portal to identify specific programs that fit their household needs. Taking advantage of these resources can provide essential legal and financial stability for families in transition.