In Wisconsin, approximately over 61,000 children live with grandparents or other relative caregivers. Additionally, over 23,000 grandparents reported having their grandchildren living with them.

Between the years of 1995-1999 the state of Wisconsin has passed various laws and amendments that favor, fund, and support kinship care families. Through such laws, the State formed the Kinship Care program, which transfers funding for kinship care family resources to the Counties. The Wisconsin Department of Children and Families administers the Kinship Care Program, and the counties are in charge to disperse financial assistance to kinship care families. The Kinship Care Program and its private counter parts work to ensure that all kinship care families have the resources and support necessary to survive.

Wisconsin offers a diverse range of services, support, and assistance for kinship care families. Through public and private partnerships the state has been able to place many children with relatives, and prevent their entrance into the foster system.

By the Numbers

• Over 61,000 children live with grandparents or other relative caregivers.
• Over 23,000 grandparents report having their grandchildren living with them.

Grandparent Visitation

Download the Grandparent Visitation information here (current as of 8/1/11)