A grandmother in West Virginia

By Karen Best Wright, www.RaisingYourGrandchildren.com

I recently received this email from a grandmother in West Virginia who is quite frustrated, justifiably in my opinion.

When answering the questions"What positive experiences have you had," she answered,

"Nothing it gets more emotional daily, if the parents were completely out of the situation it may be better."

Many of you grandparents have written similar statements.

This grandmother also states, "I've had 3 GC for almost 6 yrs the parents are drug addicts and give no financial help what so ever. And not only has it drained us financially it has emotionally. All the help I get from the DHHR is a medical card for the kids and $340.00 a month for all 3 combined.You cant feed them on that much less provide all their needs."

I have added this grandmothers comments because I know many of you experience the same situation and have the same feelings. Just know, you are not alone.

Karen Wright
A Grandmother who loves her grandchildren

 

Comments

[Jean]

I hope she can find a grandparents support group. If not close, than on the internet. I wish others could understand just how we cope and how the other side of the grandparenting family does little or nothing to help many times. I wish her the best of luck!

[Susan Adcox]

While doing some research for my site, I came across an article which stated that custodial grandparents most often assume the role involuntarily and "with little or no forewarning." I can't imagine having to go from being a grandmother to a mother/grandmother in the blink of an eye. My hat is off to all of you grandparents raising grandchildren!

[Kelly Stone]

I work for Totally Kids fun furniture & toys in Minneapolis.
We have seen a growing number of grandmothers visiting our store who are raising their grandchildren on their own. It is a shame that they are not eligible some form of assistance. My heart goes out to all of them. Our store is in the process of developing a discount program in an attempt to offer some help. Any suggestions would be welcome.
Kelly