Families come in all shapes and sizes. None of them are perfect, but some are faced with more challenges than others.

This week we are discussing Grandfamilies, the families with the grandparents parenting their grandchildren. The statistics on Grandfamilies are thought-provoking: 

• 2.3M grandparents are responsible for their grandchildren via “kinship care”
• Approximately 1M grandparents raising grandchildren are 60 years of age or older, with the average age being 67
• One-third of grandchildren living with grandparents via kinship care are younger than 6 years old

These numbers tell us that Grandfamilies live in your neighborhood and ours. These families are everywhere when we open our eyes to see them. But what do these families need and where can they go to find resources? And how can we support them?

Join us for this inspiring episode as we unpack all of this and more with Leslie Navarro, the proud grandparent of Isaac, age 15, and Isaih, age 13. Leslie's story will open. your eyes to the struggles that these families face and leave you inspired by her resiliency. 

Show Notes:
Interactive map to find resources in your state and county::
https://www.grandfamilies.org/State-Fact-Sheets 

When Grandparents Are Called To Parent – Again. AARP.org/bulletin
March, 2023: Generations United: Offers a variety of information and resources for grandparents raising grandchildren.

Grandfamilies.org: Provides legal resources and policy information for grandparents raising grandchildren.

AARP Grandfamilies Guide: Offers a comprehensive guide related to seeking services.
 Includes information about how grandparents can obtain assistance from a variety of
professionals and organizations.  The website also offers a searchable listing of support
groups.

AARP Grandfamily Resources List of public and private resources for grandparents raising grandchildren.  Topics include education, childcare and children’s special needs, family challenges, finances, health, housing and safety, legal, support, and work.

For information and community for grandparents, go to: www.raisingyourgrandchildren.com