Nevada Launches KinCare Program to Support Families Caring for Children Impacted by Substance Misuse

When parents are unable to care for their children due to substance misuse, it is often relatives who step in. A new Nevada program is offering financial support to help these families provide safe and stable homes.

Approximately 4,800 Nevada families may be eligible for assistance through KinCare, a program designed to support relatives caring for children who have been removed or voluntarily surrendered from their parents or guardians due to substance misuse.

Children in the care of relatives due to substance misuse often avoid entering the formal foster care system, reducing the need for court involvement. These arrangements can happen with little notice, placing immediate and significant financial strain on caregivers. While the goal is to keep children connected with family, these caregivers take on the responsibility without the financial support available to licensed foster parents. 

“KinCare was designed to support families who step up in moments of crisis to care for children they love,” said Nevada Division of Social Services Deputy Administrator Kelly Cantrelle. “We know that keeping children with family leads to better outcomes, but we also recognize the real financial challenges caregivers face.”

KinCare provides a monthly cash benefit of up to $430 per eligible child, depending on household income. The program will be available through June 30, 2027, offering critical support to families across the state.

Nevada state law prohibits the sharing of information related to child welfare cases with unauthorized individuals, including caregivers. As a result, neither DSS nor caregiving families can independently verify whether a child’s living arrangements are due to substance misuse. Families who think they may be eligible for KinCare are encouraged to apply. 

Families may access KinCare applications through the following child welfare agencies

• Clark County Family Services
• State of Nevada Division of Child and Family Services
• Washoe County Human Services Agency 

Applications are also available through Foster Kinship, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting kinship families. 

Once completed, applications must be returned to the respective child welfare agency. Families working with Clark County Family Services can submit completed applications by emailing DFSFPC@ClarkCountyNV.Gov. 

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About KinCare

During the 83rd Legislative Session, the Division of Social Services (DSS) received funding through the Fund for a Resilient Nevada (FRN) to create KinCare. This initiative focuses on strengthening and supporting the relatives who play a vital role in keeping children safe, connected, and out of foster care.