Financial Help

Short-term support to pay for food, housing, clothing, school supplies, legal services

Funds are for relative caregivers not involved in the child welfare system through the Kinship Caregivers Support Program (KCSP). Find the KCSP in your county or on the statewide directory.

On-going financial assistance

Cash may be available for children who are in the care of a relative or other adult through a Temporary Assistance for Needy Families - TANF child-only grant. Recipients of child-only TANF can also get additional one-time cash payments for help with emergency housing or utility needs. Go to DSHS Child only grant to learn about the program.

Due to means testing repeal, the caregiver no longer needs to meet certain income guidelines to qualify for assistance on behalf of the child.

To apply, contact your local Community Services Office - CSO or apply on-line using the Online Application for Services.

Emergency, short-term funds to pay for furniture, clothing, school supplies

These TANF funds are for children placed by the Division of Children and Family Services - DCFS through the Relative Support Services program and are to facilitate or maintain Division of Children and Family Services placements.

Contact your local Division of Children, Youth, and Families office for more information.

Medical Assistance

Apple Health may also be available for children who are in the care of a relative or other adult.  A caregiver can apply for medical on behalf of a child in their care by going to wahealthplanfinder.org or calling 1-855-923-4633.

TANF Child Only Videos

Page Topic: 
Kinship Care - Benefits/Services