CHESTER COUNTY, PA — Raising a child is no easy feat, but imagine doing it again decades later. This is the reality for many grandparents and other non-parent caregivers who have stepped up to care for their grandchildren or other kin. These grandfamilies face unique challenges, from navigating the legal system to finding resources to support their children’s education and healthcare. To help these families navigate these challenges, Grandfamily Connections and PA KinConnector are sponsoring a free regional event on September 9th, 2023, at the CCIU in Downingtown.
The upcoming event is geared towards empowering grandfamilies and kinship care providers throughout Chester County and Southeastern Pennsylvania. Specifically, the event offers two educational workshops centered around Kinship Family Dynamics and Co-Parenting. These discussion sessions will help caregivers navigate the challenges of raising children in non-traditional family structures, and provide them with tips and resources to support their family’s well-being.
In addition to the educational workshops, the event also provides an opportunity for attendees to connect with local resource organizations. Over fifteen organizations will be present to provide information and assistance to support the unique needs of grandfamilies and kinship providers, from legal assistance to healthcare support and beyond. These resources can be crucial for caregivers who may feel overwhelmed or unsure of where to turn for help.
Perhaps one of the most valuable aspects of the event, however, is the chance for caregivers to connect with other families in similar situations. Grandfamilies and kinship providers can often feel isolated or misunderstood by others who may not understand the unique challenges and joys that come with raising a child outside of traditional family structures. By connecting with other families, caregivers can share valuable insights and tips, gain a sense of community, and reduce the sense of isolation that can be all too common for families in these situations.
Of course, one of the most significant reasons why events like this one are so important is the vital role of kinship care itself. According to AARP, there are nearly 2.7 million children living with grandparents or other relatives who are their primary caregivers. The reasons for this can vary, from parents battling substance abuse to military deployment to economic hardship and beyond. Whatever the reason, Grandfamilies play an essential role in ensuring the safety and well-being of these children and preserving the family’s integrity.
Raising a child can be challenging under the best of circumstances, but Grandfamilies and other kinship care providers face unique obstacles and opportunities. Events like the upcoming one sponsored by Grandfamily Connections and PA KinConnector can provide these families with the resources, education, and community they need to navigate the system, access support and services, and connect with others who share their experiences. Ultimately, by empowering grandfamilies, we can ensure the safety and well-being of some of our most vulnerable children while preserving the bonds of family that are so critical for our society’s health and happiness.
Register at https://www.kinconnector.org/copy-of-monthly-news to secure your spot.
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