Relative Caregiver Program
The Relative Caregiver Program is a comprehensive public/private collaboration funded by the Department of Children’s Services. The program offers support services and resources to relatives raising relative children whose biological parents are no longer able to do so. The RCP was developed out of recognition that a child fares better both mentally and physically when placed with a relative versus in state custody.
Since many relative caregivers are aging and/or living on a fixed income, providing the basic necessities for their relative children can be a financial struggle. The RCP provides monthly support groups and enrichment activities, as well as emergency financial support for these families. Monthly case management is offered to the whole relative family, and caregivers are provided with a resource manual that lists available resources and services within their own community.
Along with monthly enrichment activities, the RCP offers training and workshops to both caregivers and children such as CPR instructional classes and summer camps. The program is designed to strengthen the relative caregiver family to enable the child/children to remain in the relative caregiver home.
Resources Available
- Support groups in both day and evening settings
- Information and referral
- Groups for children and teens
- Educational workshops for adults, teens and children
- Emergency material and financial assistance for unmet needs upon availability of program funds
- Short term case management
- Respite and recreational activities
Monthly Support Groups
We offer support groups in all fourteen counties of the Upper Cumberland.
Program Contact
If you are interested in learning more about RCP, contact Melissa Allison at 931.476.4127 or by email at mallison@ucdd.org.
Useful Resources
Click here for the KidCentral website. It has some helpful resources for caregivers.
