More grandparents raising grandchildren
KINGSTON, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)— A recent report shows a significant increase in grandparents caring for their grandchildren across the United States; those numbers are no different in Pennsylvania.
28/22 News Reporter Sydney Kostus spoke with one organization that’s trying to meet the needs we’re seeing in NEPA.
Retirement is the plan for many over 65, but according to a recent report by the Census Bureau, raising a new generation is on the rise.
We sat down with Frank Mariano, the President of the Advocacy Fund for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren in Luzerne County about the need their group is seeing.
“In Luzerne County, I think we’re looking at about 2,400 kids being raised by about 1,000 grandparents or caregivers,” Mariano told 28/22 News.
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The group of volunteers works with those looking to adopt the child in their care by providing support and funds through grants; money that many families in these positions rely on.
“There have been a number of parents who have been very, very concerned in their 60s or 70s who have adopted young children of, ‘How am I going to pay for their education? How am I going to take care of them when they get older?’” Mariano explained.
He says some reasons behind the grandparents stepping in can vary from parents struggling with addiction or abuse happening in the home, but it’s not always grandparents coming to the rescue.
“My goddaughter was in a horrible situation,” said Catherine Faraday, a board member for the Advocacy Fund for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren. “When I learned more in-depth about her situation I had decided it was time for her to come and stay with me forever.”
Catherine Faraday sought the help of the organization when adopting her daughter. She says its support group named “The American Heroes” is dear to her heart as they walked her through the process.
“It is a very tough battle, but it’s also very rewarding. I am very thankful but I have custody and now have adopted my goddaughter. She is an amazing child and to watch her grow and guide her and give her knowledge of everything, it’s just a wonderful situation,” Faraday said.
The Advocacy Fund for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren’s next support group is on May 13 at 6:00 p.m. at the Jewish Community Center in Kingston. At the meeting, you can find more information to donate or advice if you’re looking to adopt.
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