After a determination is made to uphold or overturn a denial, the CPS regional director’s designee must provide written notification of the determination to the potential kinship caregiver who requested the appeal.

If Denial Is Upheld

If the denial is upheld, the determination letter must explain how the criminal history affects the safety, well-being, or placement stability of the child.

If Denial Is Overturned

If the denial is overturned (that is, the home assessment becomes approved), DFPS staff must determine whether placement with the potential kinship caregiver is in the child’s best interest. See 4114 Required Factors to Consider When Evaluating a Possible Placement. If the child is not placed in the potential kinship caregiver’s home, the caseworker must explore how the relative or fictive kin can be a permanency resource for the child, which may include, but is not limited to, doing the following:

• Sending letters and gifts.
• Communicating with the child by phone or other technology.
• Visiting with the child, including on holidays.
• Providing transportation for the child.
• Participating in the child’s extracurricular activities, such as attending little league games or school performances.
• Providing family information and photos.
• Providing other family members’ contact information.
• Babysitting.
• Other involvement, as determined by CPS and the family.

If the child is not placed with the potential kinship caregiver, the relative or fictive kin can be considered for placement at a later time, if there is a change in permanency goals or if a new placement is needed.