North Panhandle Times

Catholic Charities West Virginia (CCWVa) will launch the Relatives as Parents Program (RAPP) on April 10, 2025, in Huntington. This initiative is aimed at supporting kinship caregivers, such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, and other relatives, who have taken on the responsibility of raising children when parents are unable to do so, often due to challenges like the opioid crisis.

The program seeks to provide these caregivers with knowledge, support, and resources to help them in their caregiving roles. Diana Bell, the Assistant Chief Program Officer at CCWVa, stated, “Our mission is to equip relatives caring for children with the knowledge and support they need.” RAPP is designed to offer a community-focused environment where caregivers can access guidance and encouragement during their caregiving journey.

Joe Sparksman, CCWVa's Western Region Director, described the initiative as a way to “strengthen families by helping them build a stable foundation.” The program aims to empower caregivers through goal-setting and practical solutions, which in turn creates a nurturing environment for the children.

Funded by the Pallottine Foundation of Huntington, RAPP will conduct monthly sessions for approximately 10 families, serving about 30 individuals. These sessions will include educational workshops covering topics such as parenting, nutrition, child safety, self-care, and financial literacy. Additionally, caregivers will receive one-on-one support from a CCWVa case manager, homework assistance, fun activities, and childcare for the children, along with a shared meal and transportation aid.

The program invites families to join without income requirements, emphasizing the belief that every family deserves the opportunity to thrive. As a kinship support program, RAPP aims to alleviate the unique legal, financial, and emotional burdens faced by caregivers. “Our RAPP program is here to ease those burdens with practical resources and the loving support of a community that understands,” Sparksman added.

For more information or to enroll in the program, interested individuals can contact Jessica Wormington at 304.955.9012 or via email at jworminton@ccwva.org.