Kinship caregivers and community partners are scheduled to meet at Puente de Hozho Elementary School in Flagstaff on April 29 for the Annual Kinship Fair, now in its third year, according to Coconino County’s official website. The event is organized by the Coconino County Juvenile Court (CCJC) and Mercy Care’s Foster, Adoptive and Kinship Council, in coordination with local and state agencies. It is intended to provide information and resources to families caring for young relatives as they navigate the child welfare system.
Launched in 2023, the initiative originally aimed to support kinship caregivers. It has since expanded to include adoptive parents who are adjusting to the integration of new children into their households. According to Coconino County's notice, Sandra Quintanilla, the Dependency Program Coordinator for CCJC, stated, “Kinship caregivers do this incredible thing of keeping their grandchildren, nieces, and nephews out of a foster home and keep them home with family.”
The fair serves as a one-stop spot for these dedicated caregivers to connect with a wealth of services. These include Coconino County’s WIC program, the Department of Economic Security offices, and facilities providing physical and behavioral health assistance, indigenous health resources, parenting classes, AHCCCS enrollment, and family support including guardianship paperwork.
The collaboration between CCJC and Mercy Care is rooted in a shared mission to uphold family bonds during trying times. Alejandra Velarde, overseeing Mercy Care's behavioral health programs for children in foster care in Northern Arizona, expressed the sentiment behind the partnership: “Kinship caregivers are making it possible for children to stay with their families, and it’s not always easy,” Velarde told the Coconino County. “We’re honored to work with our community partners, like the Coconino County Juvenile Court, to make sure that these families know that they aren’t alone.”
The Kinship Fair will include activities such as arts and crafts for children while guardians review available services. Pizza and refreshments will be offered while supplies last. The event is free and open to all families. It will take place at Puente de Hozho Elementary School, located at 3401 N. Fourth Street in Flagstaff, from 4 to 6 p.m.
