Kinship Service Network (KSN) of Pinellas

In response to a community need identified and funded by Juvenile Welfare Board in Pinellas County, Big Brothers Big Sisters has partnered with The Children’s Home, Inc. and Catholic Charities to form the Kinship Services Network (KSN) of Pinellas County. 

There are approximately 17,000 children living in a relative caregiver environment in Pinellas County – that is, children being raised by their grandparents, aunts/uncles, cousins, or siblings.  People have always cared for their relatives' children; however most have done so with little or no formal help.  Lack of assistance may lead to family stress that impacts the entire family. Our Kinship Care program was developed to help provide support to this ever increasing number of relative caregivers by helping families access necessary services, expanding family support systems, and ultimately reducing stress to promote family stability.

Monthly Support Groups are available to help relative caregivers with similar experiences make new connections with other caregivers and increase their social network.  Relative caregivers and children can attend.  All families are invited to participate in support groups, and planned recreational activities and social outings are offered.

Families receive a thorough in-home assessment to determine family support needs.  The Family Support Coordinator works with the family to navigate the services they need such as:  child care assistance, counseling/therapy, access to medical care, neighborhood support, vocational support, economic assistance, substance abuse treatment, academic tutoring/support, respite assistance, transportation, legal services, mentoring, social/recreational activities. 

Bilingual (Spanish) support is available through KSN. 

To reach the KSN intake line, or for more information, please call 727-466-9478. 

Youth Caregivers
Children caring for family members 

In 2008, with the generous support of Baxter international Foundation and Morton Plant Mease Foundation’s Women in Philanthropy, Big Brothers Big Sisters will be expanding comprehensive wrap-around services to children participating in family care giving. 

These youth suffer adverse effects both physically and psychologically with the increased stresses associated with taking care of a sick or disabled family member. Through this collaboration, 50 children will be offered youth care giving support (25 from Largo Middle School and 25 from Largo High School).

If you are interested in learning more about this program please contact Jennifer Redfering at 727-518-8860 ext.245 or Jennifer@bbbspc.org