Promoting Safe and Stable Families (PSSF, Title IV-B Subpart 2)

Federal formula block grant to states for family support, family preservation, time-limited family reunification, and adoption promotion services. Kinship and grandfamily caregivers can access PSSF-funded services including respite care, support groups, and parenting assistance. P.L. 118-258 (January 2025) reauthorized Title IV-B and added competitive kinship navigator grant set-asides to PSSF starting FY2026, making PSSF the statutory home for new kinship navigator funding.

PSSF is the Title IV-B, Subpart 2 child-welfare funding framework for states, tribes, and territories. The statute enables coordinated programs of community-based family support services, family preservation services, family reunification services, and adoption promotion and support services. The statutory objectives include preventing child maltreatment among families at risk, preserving children's safety at home when problems can be addressed effectively, supporting reunification for children placed in foster care, and supporting adoptive families. Current definitions include kinship families and family resource centers; family preservation services include respite care of children to provide temporary relief for parents, kinship caregivers, and foster parents. Access and exact services vary by state child welfare agency, tribe, local provider, and family resource center.

Services

PSSF is the Title IV-B, Subpart 2 child-welfare funding framework for states, tribes, and territories. The statute enables coordinated programs of community-based family support services, family preservation services, family reunification services, and adoption promotion and support services. The statutory objectives include preventing child maltreatment among families at risk, preserving children's safety at home when problems can be addressed effectively, supporting reunification for children placed in foster care, and supporting adoptive families. Current definitions include kinship families and family resource centers; family preservation services include respite care of children to provide temporary relief for parents, kinship caregivers, and foster parents. Access and exact services vary by state child welfare agency, tribe, local provider, and family resource center.

How to apply

Use the official program page for application details: official program page.