I am a caregiver currently entrusted with two children, a responsibility I accepted under the Kinship Placement initiative in Ohio. Like myself, many others exercise this noble option to provide a stable environment for our kin, preventing disruptions to their valuable childhood. Yet, the journey is often fraught with challenges due to a lack of adequate resources. Currently, we are not receiving the same support as licensed foster parents.

Ohio's laws provide substantial resources and support for licensed foster parents but often exclude kinship caregivers. This discrepancy significantly impacts the ability of kinship families, like mine, to provide the care and support our children need. Yet, we step up to offer a safe, nurturing environment, full of love and commitment.

The State of Ohio, especially Hamilton County, must recognize the invaluable role kinship caregivers play in nurturing our future generation. In an estimate by the Hamilton County Job and Family Services, over 3,500 children live with kinship caregivers; these children need the State's support to ensure a promising future.

The objective of this petition is to implore legislation to extend the same resources and support to Kinship families as to licensed foster parents. Following the legal guardianship, kinship families need the state's essential help to overcome the numerous obstacles faced by these unique family units. This initiative will not only enhance the quality of life for our children but also uphold the stability of our communities.

Let us jointly urge our legislators to bring about this crucial change. Let's demand equal support for all caregivers, recognizing the extraordinary commitment of kinship caregivers. Please sign this petition to make our plea louder and aid in bringing about this essential change.