Generation gap for raising children
Grandparents who are raising their grandchildren can get help through a pair of local programs.
These households face unique disadvantages that make it especially difficult for many to provide for their grandchildren beyond their basic needs, said Joyce Gallagher, executive director of the Chicago Department of Family and Support Services/Senior Services Area Agency on Aging. The department has a Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Program.
"This is an important program because grandparents are taking on a labor of love to make sure these children don't go into the system [foster care or adoption]. They want to keep the family together with love and all the support they can offer," said Gallagher.
In addition to providing for grandchildren, Gallagher says grandparents also have to deal with advancing age, isolation, poor health, low or fixed income, education deficiencies, lack of transportation and inadequate housing.
Here's a look at two local programs specifically helping grandparents and grandchildren:
The city's Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Program promotes family cohesiveness by targeting the emotional, physical and financial well-being of the family unit. The program offers grandparents and other relatives raising grandchildren information, education, and supportive services. Grandparents are assessed according to their needs. So, some grandparents may receive counseling on a one-on-one basis or within a support group setting. For those in financial need, funds are available to purchase a limited supply of goods or services. For an assessment or information, call (312) 744-4016.
Grandfamilies Program of Chicago: The program, which is affiliated with the city program, has a network of support services to offer assistance and counseling on financial burdens. The program helps by giving referrals to local grandparent support programs in the city and offers help in paying gas and electric bills. The GPC also has created a housing resource center to help the general public, grandparents included, find housing. The program also provides short term assistance of goods and services to meet individual needs. The GPC hosts monthly support meetings in senior centers and at faith-based organizations throughout the city. It was started in 2003 by Linette Kinchen who found herself raising her grandchild. She needed help and found few support services. To help others, Kinchen launched the Grandfamilies Program of Chicago.
Lena Moore, 71, has raised her 17-year-old grandchild Geeleeyaw Moore, with help from the GPC. During the day, Lena also cares for 2-year-old Michelle while her daughter Sheryl Moore works. Sheryl is planning on adopting Michelle, her foster child.
"When I needed someone to talk to or had problems, all I had to do was call and they guided me," Lena said.
Celeste Busk
10 March 2010
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/beaconnews/lifestyles/2092521,FIT-News-senior10.article
