AARP Offers Resources For Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
By: Source: AARP.org Date Posted: 2003-10-09 13:09:45
Often grandparents do not know where to turn when they are faced with raising grandchildren. AARP can help.
Where can I get help about legal issues?
Grandparent caregivers often face legal issues such as custody, adoption, guardianship, and foster care. Many times agreements can be reached through mediation. For help in learning about the best choice for your family, contact:
- Mediation services
- Local/state bar associations
- Legal services/legal aid society
- A lawyer who specializes in family law
- Local department of social services
- Foster care or adoption agencies
- Family service agencies
There isn't enough money to go around. How can I get financial assistance?
It is often difficult to afford to house, feed, and clothe your grandchild. Some states offer subsidies for grandparent caregivers. Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), a federal/state program, is also an option. To find out about these and other options in your community, contact the following organizations:
- The local Social Security Administration office for information about Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Grandparent support groups (contact the AARP Grandparent Information Center to see if a group exists near you)
- Local department of social services, aging, or family services
- Religious/charitable groups
How can I get health care/insurance for my grandchildren?
Various options include private insurance, Medicaid, or state Children's Health Insurance Programs (CHIP). You can determine what your grandchild is eligible for by contacting:
- Your own insurance carrier to see if your grandchild qualifies as a dependent on your policy
- Your local department of social services or child and family services office for Medicaid/CHIP information
- Local/state public health office for low-cost or free programs
Where can I find quality child care for my grandchild?
To find a care provider for your grandchild, get information from:
- Child care resource and referral agencies
- Your employer's human resources department
- Religious groups that sponsor programs
- Local/state social service agency and child care licensing board
- Local school system
- Local Headstart program or childcare center
How can I enroll my grandchild in school?
It is important to keep your grandchild in school. You will need to find out if you need legal custody or guardianship to enroll your grandchild. If your grandchild has behavioral or learning challenges, ask about special services that may be offered. Contact:
- Principal or guidance counselor at your local school
- School board for special education services
- Office for developmental disabilities
- Mental health association for counseling or peer support groups
- Local learning centers for tutoring
Where is the best place to look for contacts?
- Look in your phone book—government agencies and offices are usually listed in a separate section, sometimes called the "blue pages"
- Call your local library and ask about locating the services or offices you need
- Search on the Internet
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