Subsidized guardianship is just another of your many legal options that you'll want to consider or review before making a final decision. Subsidized guardianship is when the state provides financial assistance to families who provide out-of-home care for children with major health problems. As most people are aware, there are many children in need of a permanent and loving home. However, permanent placement can become difficult for those children with severe health problems, as health problems can cause a financial burden. The state-issued subsidized guardianship bridges that gap by providing children with a permanent home--when they will not be reunited with their biological family and are available for adoption--and parents with the financial means to provide proper and adequate care.

Depending on the state in which you live, subsidized guardianship can also apply to long-term relative foster care situations, also known as kinship care. For some families, subsidized guardianship can mean they can have the family they've always dreamed of. Receiving subsidized guardianship isn't about receiving extra money each month. It's about providing excellent care for a child in need and lovingly accepting him or her into your home, heart, and family. Subsidized guardianship has the power to benefit everyone involved and everyone affected by it.

Because the laws on subsidized guardianship differ from state to state, it's crucial to research your state's laws and the state laws of the child you're hoping to adopt before you begin any adoption or kinship care process. Remember, not every state offers subsidized guardianship.

Once subsidized guardianship is provided, the caregiver then becomes the permanent guardian instead of the state being the guardian. If the child is older, the state may speak to the child about his or her wishes first. After all, this type of arrangement should benefit everyone. It all comes down to having the best interests of the child at heart. If a judge determines that this is the case, subsidized guardianship is usually approved.

Here are some of the many states that offer subsidized guardianship:

• Arizona
• California
• Florida
• Kansas
• Nevada
• Utah
• Wyoming

If your state isn't listed, that doesn't mean they don't offer this assistance. Contact and reach out to your state government to find out more about your specific state. If they don't offer subsidized guardianship, they may offer a similar financial assistance program. You'll never know what's possible in the building of your family until you first put in the necessary research. Start today!

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