Kinship Caregiving - Grandparent Resource Center program
A kinship caregiver is an individual that is caring for a child that is not biologically their own (e.g. grandparents, relatives or other extended family members, and adults with whom they have a close family-like relationship such as godparents and close family friends because biological parents are unable to do so for various reasons).
In NYC, use of kinship foster homes has increased 16% in past 5 years.
2.65
million children
Across the nation, 4% of all kids — more than 2.65 million children — are in kinship care.
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The NYC Department for the Aging’s Grandparent Resource Center program exists to empower NYC kinship caregivers. The program currently serves over 2,000 kinship caregivers. Services include:
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Workshops on legal issues, benefits and entitlements, nutrition, budgeting, and other In-person and Virtual Workshops and Training
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Referrals and information
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Peer support groups and guidance on starting individual groups
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Expanded outreach at Mayor's Action Plan for Neighborhood Safety at NYCHA Development in all 5 boroughs
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Parenting A Second Time Around (PASTA)-Cornel University Cooperative Extension- CECU/Empowerment Series Classes (Fordham University)
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"Grandparent sensitivity training" and “Kinship Care 101” trainings for professionals
The Relatives as Parents Program (RAPP), is a vital program for kinship caregivers and addresses intergenerational issues and shared solutions and activities. The Brookdale Foundation on Aging has been an integral financial supporter of the program and recognized its innovative efforts by awarding RAPP its first Commissioner Janet Sainer Award.
Your donation supports engagement, outreach, and intergenerational activities.
Intergenerational Programs
at a glance
Foster Grandparent Program
The Foster Grandparent Program is an AmeriCorps national senior program established in 1965 for the purpose of pairing senior citizens with at-risk children. Foster Grandparent volunteers offer their time to enhance the quality of life of children and youth in preschools, schools and other community programs.
The NYC Department for the Aging (DFTA) launched the Foster Grandparent Program in 1972, with financing from the New York Community Trust and from Chase Manhattan Bank. The program offers New Yorkers age 55+, who meet income eligibility requirements, a non-taxable stipend to serve as mentors, tutors, and caregivers for children and youth with special and exceptional needs. There are currently around 300 volunteers who work with over 800 children.
Your donation supports engagement, outreach, and evaluation activities.
