Count chosen family in policy design

Policy rules and program eligibility often assume nuclear or legally defined family structures. Designing social, caregiving, and disaster‑relief programs that recognize non‑kin 'chosen family' (longtime friends, godparents, co‑residents) would better reflect how many Black Americans actually organize support. — If policymakers and service providers recognize chosen family, program coverage, outreach, and measurement (e.g., caregiving supports, emergency contacts, benefit eligibility) could be more effective and equitable.