​​What We Know About Custodial Grandparents?

~Nationwide, 2.7 million grandparents are raising grandchildren, and about one-fifth of those have incomes that fall below poverty line, according to census figures.   A grandparent who must provide a modified home environment to meet the needs of a grandchild, especially one with a disability, can be challenging financially and emotionally; and thus, be a source of stress.  This and other stressors can result in feelings of isolation and depression among these grandparents in their new roles.~

When a Child Has Special Needs

Isn't every kid special? We think so! But what do we mean when we say "kids with special needs"? This means any kid who has been diagnosed with a medical, physical, emotional, or learning disability. These kids have special needs because they may require medication, therapy, or extra help in school — things other kids that are labeled "normal" may not need.  Special needs is an umbrella term for a wide array of diagnoses, from those that resolve quickly to those that will be a challenge for life; those that are relatively mild to those that are profound. It covers developmental delays, medical conditions, psychiatric conditions, and congenital conditions that require accommodations so children can reach their potentials.  While having a child with "special needs" it does not change their need for love, affection, and attention.  Love has no disability only means that although we may look different, learn different, communicate different; our need for love is all the SAME.  

Supporting Our Community And Grandparents Raising Grandchildren With Disabilities

As part of our activities we will develop and promote a community based resource center for grandparents who have the responsibilities of raising their disabled grandchildren and lessening the burden of the community in our area. Other activities include speaking with the youth on critical thinking skills and informing them of real world life skills. All individuals enrolled in our program will be required to give back to the community by volunteering, speaking to other youth, and helping others reconnect with family.

How We Can Help

Information and Referrals
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We provide information and referrals to resources that are valuable to our clients. Our caring case workers listen and provide supportive services in a friendly and nurturing environment.

Emotional Support
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As Grandparents supporting and raising grand children with disabilities, we provide emotional support and assistance during those tough times in life and in some cases, death.

Financial Assistance
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We constantly seek out financial resources such as grants and scholarships to assist Grandparents addressing the needs and desires for their grand children.