How to apply for Relative Caregiver Program (Fentress County)
Upper Cumberland Development District (UCDD), Housing & Family Services — a Tennessee Department of Children's Services-funded program serving all 14 Upper Cumberland counties
Who it's for
Support for grandparents and other relatives who are raising a relative's child because the parents no longer can. The Relative Caregiver Program offers monthly support groups (day and evening) in every Upper Cumberland county, groups and enrichment activities for the children and teens, educational workshops such as CPR classes and summer camps, short-term case management for the whole family, a resource manual of local help, and emergency material and financial assistance for unmet needs when program funds are available. Contact Melissa Allison at 931-476-4127 or mallison@ucdd.org.
This program is for a relative who is the caregiver of a child — it does not help with caring for an adult. Emergency material and financial assistance depends on program funds being available; the support groups, workshops, and case management are open to any relative-caregiver family in the region. UCDD confirms eligibility.
People who qualify for one senior program often qualify for others. See everything you may qualify for — free, no SSN, about five minutes.
Find my benefitsWhat you'll need
- Proof that you are a relative raising the child (blood, marriage, or adoption)
- Proof of Fentress County residency
- Information about the unmet need if you are asking for emergency assistance
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 931-476-4127
What to say when you call
"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Relative Caregiver Program (Fentress County). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need proof that you are a relative raising the child (blood, marriage, or adoption), proof of Fentress County residency, information about the unmet need if you are asking for emergency assistance — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"
Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.
Renewals
ongoing (monthly support groups; emergency assistance as funds allow)
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.