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 the child considers family, etc. also share their homes with children 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.
Services offered by RAPP include:
Phone support: 681-539-0399 or 304-562-0723
Email Nikki S. for questions and/or resources
RAPP is supported by a grant from the Bureau of Senior Services.
Other Resources:
GRANDFACTS: State Fact Sheets for Grandfamilies
Resource Guides from other locations:
A Resource Guide for Grandparents and other Relatives Raising Children in Oregon
Ohio Resource Guide for Relatives Caring for Children
A Resource Guide for Relatives as Parents in Washington State
National Resources:
Generations United Grand Resources Guide for Children with Disabilities