If you are raising another family member’s child (or a child with close family ties) and are seeking information and resources, the WV Relatives as Parents Program (WV RAPP) is here to help!

WV Relatives As Parents Program (RAPP)

The WV Relatives as Parents Program (WV RAPP) is sponsored by Mission West Virginia, the WV Bureau of Senior Services and the Brookdale Foundation.  WV RAPP provides information and nonfinancial assistance such as:

  • Phone support providing information, advocacy and a “listening ear” to relative caregivers or those considering relative caregiving

  • Facebook support group for relative caregivers or those considering providing relative care

  • Training for relative caregivers and professionals

  • Educational resource development

  • Community networking, organization and advocacy

Relative or Kinship Caregiving

Relative or kinship caregiving is the full-time nurturing and protection of another family member’s child (or someone with close family ties).  While many caregivers are grandparents, others such as aunts, uncles, siblings, cousins, godparents, church family members, those who the child considers family, etc. also share their homes with children who are temporarily or permanently separated from their parents.  The legal, financial, emotional and physical challenges for all family members can be overwhelming.  For caregivers, managing daily activities while dealing with social services, legal, education and other systems, can be frustrating and stressful to say the least.

WV RAPP is here to connect you to services and resources through information and support.  You can continue to visit this site for updated information, call our phone support line for individual assistance, e-mail the WV RAPP Program Coordinator or join our Facebook support group.  This group is open to WV residents currently providing care or who are considering caregiving as a safe and empowering place to connect with others in a similar situation.

RAPP Resource Guide

The WV RAPP Resource Guide is available online! Local programs that provide support, resources and assistance often can be found by contacting your local WVDHHR office, university extension program, Legal Aid office, school, area agency on aging, community center or faith-based organization.

Services offered by RAPP include:

RAPP is supported by a grant from the Bureau of Senior Services.