This application process is only for members of the Taos Pueblo and our Tribal partners living in Taos County. If you are not a member of Taos Pueblo or living in the community, please see our FAQs section or contact Christy Olsen (575) 770-961 or christina@taospueblo.com.
Why should you become a relative family?
You are needed
There are Taos Pueblo children currently placed outside of the community due to a lack of local families available to provide relative care. Help us to bring these kids back to our community!
You’ll be supported
Taos Pueblo provides financial reimbursement as well as medical, mental health and educational support. We’ll be with you every step of the way.
It’s rewarding
Opening your heart to a child in can be a rewarding experience. You can make a difference in a child’s life and ensure they continue with the tradition and customs of Taos Pueblo.
Relative care families are committed to providing stable, supportive homes for children who have been removed from their parents because of neglect or abuse. At Taos Pueblo we focus on Family Reunification (returning children to their families once their safety has been re-established). At the same time our team works to find “forever” homes in our community in case reunification is not possible.
How to become a Relative Care Provider if you are a tribal member
You’ll work with our Relative Care team every step of the way!
- Complete Application (you will need SS card, Sate ID/Tribal ID, Proof of Auto Insurance)
- Complete federal background check
- Complete reference letter (identify 3 people)
- Complete medical form (make appointment with your PCP)
- Home inspection
- Complete specialized training
- Get approved/licensed
FAQ
How do I know if I am ready to become a Relative Care Provider?
You are ready, if, you are willing to accept a native child into your family and give them the love, care and commitment that you would give your own child while respecting the child’s history, culture and family relationships. Relative care requires sensitivity, flexibility and selflessness. If you have these qualifications and you can safely care for a child, you are ready to start the process.
I am getting older/elderly, is this an issue?
No, you will be asked to take a physical exam to assert that you are physically able to care for a child.
I am a single male/female, is this an issue?
No. As long as you are over the age of 18 you can be single, married or living together to be considered…. All adults that reside within your home must be willing to participate in the licensing process.
Do my financial resources play an important role in becoming a Relative Care Provider?
No, as part of the process, you will be asked to provide a financial statement. You should have sufficient financial resources so that you are able to provide care of a child without being completely reliant on the monthly reimbursement provided while the children are placed in your care.
Do I get money for being a Relative Care Provider?
As a Relative Care Provider, you will receive a monthly maintenance payment to help provide food, clothing, shelter and transportation for the child placed in your home. The reimbursement is based on the child’s age and need level.
Will we have to work with or know the children’s biological family?
In most cases, yes, in fact, visits between birth parents and children are an essential part of the efforts to reunite families. Visits go a long way in helping the child work through the emotional trauma of being separated from his or her family. Each case is different and will be assessed on a case-by-case basis to determine whether or not it would be appropriate for the Relative Care Provider and biological family to work together. The child’s caseworker has the primary responsibility for planning visits and arranging supervision, if required.
As a Relative Care Provider, can I still apply for other benefits (WIC, Food Stamps, etc.)?
Depending on your income, you may be eligible to receive other state benefits. We recommend that you contact the Income Support Division Office for more information or you can call the Income Support Division Customer Service Division at 1-800-283-4465. You can also visit http://www.hsd.state.nm.us/isd.
Ready to get started?
Begin your online registration now.
Taos Pueblo is a living Native American community located about a mile north of the city of Taos, New Mexico. Approximately 150 people live within the Pueblo full time. Other families owning homes in the North or South buildings live in summer homes near their fields, and in more modern homes outside the old walls but still within Pueblo land. There are over 1900 Taos Indians living on Taos Pueblo lands. The Department of Social Services ensures the safety and well-being of all members of the community. Our commitment is to have all Taos Pueblo children raised within our thriving traditional community in safe and loving homes.
If you have any questions, please contact Christy Olsen at (575) 770-961 or christina@taospueblo.com