Get kinship care assistance for your family’s basic needs.
Call 1-800-535-1218 for free help and support.
When someone opens their home to take in the child of a relative or friend, their family gets bigger — but often, their budget does not. And now it has to stretch even further.
If you are a kinship caregiver, there are many resources available to help you with basic needs like food, clothing, shelter, and more. You can find kinship care assistance for basic needs in your area by clicking below.
Where can kinship families turn for assistance and support?
You can find our complete list of Basic Needs resources by clicking the links above, but here are some of the most requested sources of help for kinship caregivers and their families:
- Financial Assistance
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) offers financial support programs like the Child Only Grant (also called the ineligible grantee award), food assistance, and cash assistance. You can apply for these at the MI Bridges website after you create an account. Eligibility for most programs is based on income level.
To learn more about the programs, visit our Financial Support page. - Housing Assistance
Whether you need help finding housing or paying for your current home, both renters and homeowners can get help from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA). Visit the MSHDA website to learn more.
Food Resources
- Food banks/pantries
There are food banks and pantries across the state that will help you feed your family. To find one near you, visit the Food Bank Council of Michigan’s website. Some may ask you for proof of income to qualify for food assistance; contact the organization directly to get details. - MDHHS Food Assistance
You can apply for food assistance from MDHHS on the MI Bridges website. If you qualify, you will be issued a Michigan Bridge Card to purchase certain food products and access cash benefits.
Clothing
- Free clothing
The Foster Closet of Michigan provides free clothing and other personal items to children placed in Michigan’s foster care system. Foster Closet has 14 locations throughout the lower peninsula. Learn more and find a location near you at the Foster Closet website. - Low-cost clothing
Used clothing, furniture and many other items are available at Salvation Army Thrift Stores throughout Michigan. Find one near you at the Salvation Army website.
Other resources for kinship care assistance.
- United Way’s Michigan 2-1-1
You can call 2-1-1 or visit Mi211.org to get information about health and human services in your community, including help with food, housing, health care, and more. - Community Action Agencies
Local Community Action Agencies provide a wide variety of services. Find the agency near you to see available resources. - Salvation Army
In addition to providing low-cost clothing and other necessities through their thrift stores (see above), the Salvation Army helps provide utility assistance and emergency assistance programs. Visit their website to find locations near you and how they can help you.