PIERRE – Governor Larry Rhoden has proclaimed September 2026 as Kinship Care Appreciation Month in South Dakota, recognizing the contributions of grandparents, relatives, members of Tribal Nations, and close family friends who step forward to care for children entrusted to the child welfare system. The care provided by kinship providers helps keep families connected.

“Kinship care providers play a crucial role in ensuring children maintain connections to their family and its traditions when they cannot remain in the home of a parent,” DSS Cabinet Secretary Matt Althoff said. “Research has shown that children placed with kin experience greater stability and maintain stronger family and community connections, thereby leading to improved well-being and permanency outcomes.”

This year's national theme, "Keeping Families Connected. Supporting Children Together.", recognizes the essential role kinship caregivers play in providing children with love, stability, and a sense of belonging, while also preserving important family relationships, cultural identity, and community connections.

South Dakota follows a Kin-First approach that prioritizes identifying and engaging relatives and other trusted adults whenever children cannot safely remain in their parents' care. The state supports caregivers through Kinship South Dakota. The program connects kinship caregivers with information, education, resources, and referrals to help them navigate available services and meet the unique needs of the children in their care.

Throughout September, South Dakotans are invited to acknowledge and thank kinship caregivers. They are also encouraged to learn more about the resources available through Kinship South Dakota to help strengthen families and keep children connected to the people who know and love them. 

For more information about Kinship South Dakota and available resources for kinship caregivers, contact Kinship South Dakota by calling 844-344-9482.

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The South Dakota Department of Social Services is dedicated to strengthening families to foster health, wellbeing, and independence. For more information, please visit dss.sd.gov.