What has caused this increase? The reasons vary,
but often include: drug abuse, teenage pregnancy, mental illness,
AIDS, death or divorce and even child abuse among children's parents.
As these problems continue to increase in our society, so will
the number of parenting grandparents. So, if you are in this not-so-unique
position, it's obvious you're not alone. Here are some resources
to help you and your grandchildren.
Useful Links:
AARP's, Grandparents Raising Grandchildren:
Where to Find Help site at:
http://seniorliving.about.com/
Grandsplace: According to The US Census
2000, there are 2,350,477 grandparents in the USA that are responsible
for raising one or more of their grandchildren. Countless other
grandparents and other concerned relatives are dealing with
situations in which they wish their grandchildren lived in safer,
healthier environments. This site provides a place where caregivers
can join together and give each other the support and comfort
caregivers need www.grandsplace.com.
Caregiving: www.caregiving.com/
Note: The Council on Aging for Southeastern
Vermont would also like to hear from you if you are a grandparent
as a parent living in Windham or Windsor County. We would like
to know what your experiences have been and what resources you
have found to help you in your parenting role, so that we can
better assist others who face similar situations. Contact us at
1-800-642-5119.
According
to the U.S. Bureau of the Census in their July 1999 report for
the year 1997, nearly 5.5 million children now live with their
grandparents. That's 7.7 percent of all the children in the United
States! This number is an increase of approximately 6 percent
over the 1995 statistics. 