North Homes Children and Family Services (NHCFS) would like to thank you for your relative/kinship referral. We look forward to working with you during this process and ask that you be as thorough as possible when completing the online referral form. NHCFS understands that every referral will be unique and our staff will work with your county and/or tribal agency to obtain relevant information regarding the specific details of the case. Once NHCFS receives the referral, our staff will contact the family to explain the home study assessment/licensing process. Relative/Kinship provider orientation and interviews will be conducted with the family at the same time that all other requirements are being gathered, which includes personal references, background studies, home safety checklist, and training that is relevant to the needs and ages of the child or sibling group. On average, the home study assessment/licensing process takes three to four months; however, this may vary case-by-case, depending on how quickly the requirements are completed by the applicant(s). NHCFS will keep the referring agency updated regarding the family’s progress and will inform them if any concerns arise. Once the home study assessment is completed, it will be reviewed with the family and a copy will be sent to the referring agency. PPAI grant funding may be available through the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS). Upon receipt of this referral, NHCFS will screen the information to determine if it meets grant eligibility.