The Kinship Caregiver Pilot Program, established through House Bill 252 during the 2025 Legislative session, aims to support individuals raising children outside the traditional foster care system. The program provides access to services, legal resources, and financial assistance.
Emily Kaltenbach, ALTSD Cabinet Secretary, highlighted the importance of kinship caregivers: “Whether it’s grandparents stepping in, an aunt or uncle opening their home, or an older sibling keeping the family together, kinship caregivers are the quiet heroes of our communities,” she said. “This program is about honoring their love and commitment, and we want to ensure it truly reflects the needs of the families it is designed to support.”
The proposed rule for the program details its administration and structure. It includes eligibility criteria and outlines how counties will be chosen for participation. Additionally, it specifies the role of navigators who will assist families in accessing available resources. The pilot intends to serve up to 50 families in each of five to seven selected counties.
For those interested in providing feedback on this initiative, a full text of the proposed rule can be accessed at aging.nm.gov/kcs-rulemaking or requested from Craig Hay via email at craig.hay@altsd.nm.gov. Written comments must be submitted by Thursday, July 24 at 5 p.m., either by mail or email as specified in the instructions provided.
A public hearing regarding this matter is scheduled for Friday, July 25 at 9 a.m., taking place in the Willie Ortiz Auditorium located at 2600 Cerrillos Road, Santa Fe, N.M. 87505.
