Governor Proclaims May 20 as Kinship Caregiver Day, Honoring Relatives Raising Children
Published 1:30 am Thursday, May 28, 2026
Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson has proclaimed May 20 as Kinship Caregiver Day, recognizing thousands of grandparents, aunts, uncles, older siblings and family friends across the state who step in to raise children when parents are unable to do so.
Kinship caregivers are adults who provide full-time care for children with whom they already have a family or close emotional relationship. Unlike traditional foster care, children remain connected to familiar people, communities, schools and cultural ties. State child welfare officials say those connections can provide stability during difficult transitions.
The observance highlights an often-overlooked group of caregivers. Many take on parenting responsibilities unexpectedly due to family crises, illness, incarceration, substance abuse issues, military deployment or death. Some caregivers are retired grandparents suddenly balancing fixed incomes with the costs of raising young children.
Washington has long recognized the importance of kinship care. Previous state proclamations have honored Kinship Caregiver Day alongside Foster Care Month, acknowledging relatives who “open their hearts and homes” to children in need.
According to the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families, kinship caregivers may choose to become licensed, allowing access to financial assistance and support services, although licensing is not required to care for a relative’s child. The state offers resources including training, support programs and assistance navigating child welfare systems.
Advocates say children placed with relatives often experience less trauma than those moved to unfamiliar settings because they can maintain important family bonds and routines. At the same time, caregivers frequently face challenges including housing limitations, legal hurdles and the financial strain of adding children to a household with little warning.
The proclamation serves as both recognition and awareness, encouraging communities to support those who quietly assume one of society’s most demanding roles.
Each year during Kinship Caregiver Day, Washingtonians are encouraged to thank family members and caregivers who have stepped forward to provide safe, stable homes for children when it mattered most. Many do so without expectation of recognition, but their role can shape the future of a child, and often an entire family.
