Grandparents Raising Grandchildren in New Jersey: Challenges and Support

Kinship Caregivers in New Jersey

• 📌 Tens of thousands of children in New Jersey are being raised by their grandparents and other family members, a situation known as kinship care.
• 💔 The reasons for this arrangement vary, including the loss of a parent due to tragic accidents or parents walking away from their responsibilities.

Support Systems and Initiatives

• 🤝 Rutgers University in Newark, in collaboration with Carespark, has launched an initiative to support these kinship caregivers.
• 🎯 Services sought by grandparents include financial assistance, mental health support, tutoring, and help with basic needs like food.

National and Local Statistics

• 📊 A report by Generations United indicates that across the U.S., 2.5 million grandparents or family members are raising children.
• 📈 In New Jersey alone, nearly 50,000 individuals, predominantly grandparents, are fulfilling this role.
• 💰 This kinship care arrangement saves taxpayers an estimated $10.5 billion annually by preventing children from entering the foster care system.

Addressing Overlooked Needs

• 💡 Organizations are focusing on the self-care of these caregivers, recognizing that their well-being is crucial for providing effective care to grandchildren.
• ⚠️ The need is particularly acute in underserved communities affected by issues such as violence, drug usage, and crime.
• ✨ Grandparents are stepping up to ensure their grandchildren have a stable home and remain with family, making significant positive impacts on their lives, such as creating memorable holiday experiences.