A nonprofit organization in Texas is dedicated to supporting grandparents who are raising their grandchildren, providing essential resources and advocacy. The Texas Grandparents Raising Grandchildren (TGRG) aims to empower these families by offering access to vital information and services. According to TGRG, over 266,000 grandparents in Texas are responsible for raising their grandchildren due to various circumstances.
The financial burden associated with this responsibility can be significant, with an estimated annual cost of around $23,000 to care for a child. This financial strain is particularly challenging for many grandparents, as 23% of them live in poverty, underscoring the urgent need for support and assistance.
Resource Accessibility and Support
In an interview with KSAT, Gloria Adams, Intake Coordinator for TGRG, emphasized the importance of listening to the stories of these grandparents. “It is very difficult to parent a child who is irresponsible and yet have to parent their child,” Adams noted. “It is very difficult, but I have found through prayer, not hard to do.”
TGRG offers a variety of resources designed to alleviate some of the challenges faced by these families. The organization connects grandparents with clothing closets, food pantries, counseling services, legal aid groups, and educational opportunities. Importantly, all of these services are provided at no charge to the grandparents.
The nonprofit’s work not only addresses immediate needs but also fosters a sense of community among caregivers who may feel isolated in their circumstances. By providing a network of support, TGRG helps to build resilience within these families.
Continuing Impact and Community Engagement
The efforts of TGRG have garnered attention and support from local communities. Bexar County has continued its commitment to assisting the organization and the families it serves. Initiatives that focus on the needs of grandparents raising grandchildren are increasingly vital as societal dynamics shift and more families face similar challenges.
For grandparents seeking resources or support, TGRG offers a platform to access the help they need. The organization encourages those in need to visit their website for more information on available services.
As the landscape of family dynamics evolves, organizations like Texas Grandparents Raising Grandchildren play a crucial role in bridging gaps and ensuring that these caregivers do not navigate their challenges alone.
