What is the focus of the Fostering Connections Act of 2008?

The Fostering Connections Act of 2008 emphasizes kinship care as a primary focus. This legislation recognizes the valuable role that relatives and family members can play in the lives of children who are placed in the foster care system. The Act encourages states to identify and support relatives as caregivers, promoting stability and continuity in the child's life by keeping them connected to their family and cultural background. This not only helps to maintain important familial bonds but also has been shown to contribute positively to a child’s emotional and psychological well-being. By prioritizing kinship care, the Act aims to create a more nurturing and familiar environment for children in foster care, ultimately leading to better outcomes compared to traditional foster placements.