Children in Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Child-Only Cases with Relative Caregivers

Between 1996 and 2001, welfare cases declined nationally by 52 percent, while child-only cases declined by much less. Thus, while the number of child-only cases has fluctuated over time, their proportionate share of the TANF caseload has increased. Children in TANF child-only cases with relative caregivers occupy uncertain territory between the TANF and the child welfare service systems. Since these children are exempt from work requirements and not expected to move to self-sufficiency prior to adulthood, they are not well aligned with the TANF agency's expectations and service offerings. Because they have not been identified as having experienced maltreatment, they are outside the child welfare system's protective mandate, although they may be in need of supportive services. This report examines the demographics, family circumstances, service system involvement, service needs, and well-being of children in TANF child-only cases with relative caregivers; the policies and program structures that shape states' responses to children in TANF child-only cases with relative caregivers and the ways states assess, respond to, and monitor the needs and well-being of children in TANF child-only cases with relative caregivers. [126 PDF pages]