LIMA — Allen County Commissioners recognized a local resident who decided to raise her young family members when they had no other option. Natalie McGee, the relative of two young children, was honored with an official proclamation from the Commissioners Thursday morning declaring September as Kinship Care Month in Allen County.
McGee gained full custody of her two younger cousins when their parents were unable to care for them.
“I am just thankful I was able to be there for my cousins,” said McGee. “They needed me and I needed them so it all worked out.”
Allen County Children Services has 144 children in relative custody. Their goal is to keep children with relatives to ease the transition of care.
“We just want to thank Ms. McGee and all the kinship caregivers in Allen County,” said Sarah Newland, ACCS Executive Director. “We have so many great family members and relatives that step up to care for these children. Our goal is to keep children with family when we can do so. Thank you commissioners for recognizing Ms. McGee today.”
September is nationally known as Kinship Care Month and is now recognized in Allen County. The goal is to honor and recognize those who have opened their homes to provide care to their younger loved ones.
“This is proof of all your hard work,” said Allen County Commissioner Brian Winegardner. “They have now hope for the future.”
