Kinship Navigators
Baltimore City Kinship Navigator Services is an information and referral program that supports kinship caregivers who are caring for their minor relative (s), who are unable to remain safe in the care of their parents. Kinship Navigator Services targets kinship caregivers who are and are not involved in the child welfare system as an outreach prevention strategy that promotes safety, permanency and well-being.
Baltimore City Department of Social Services has a designated Kinship Navigator for both informal and formal care who is available to provide services to relative caregivers. Kinship Navigators are knowledgeable about their community resources and available services.
Relative caregivers are encouraged to reach out to the kin navigators when you have questions or need guidance about processes or services. Below are the BCDSS Staff assigned to provide guidance and support to relative caregivers.
Informal Kin Navigator (Relatives with children who are not committed to BCDSS)
Nickia Bright and Demetrius Hicks (Informal Kin Navigators) can be reached through the CPS hotline 410-361-2235. The screener will forward your information to the informal kinship navigator.
Formal Kin Navigator (Relatives with children who are committed to BCDSS)
Tracie Cook-Thomas
The BCDSS child placement resource unit will alert Ms. Thomas when youth are placed with a relative.
To be connected to any of our Kin Navigators, please visit or call the KinCare Center. The center can be reached by phone at 443-423-5442 or by email at bcdss.kinshipnavigator@maryland.gov. The KinCare Center is located at 2923 E. Biddle St. and is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.