On Sunday, we celebrated Grandparents Day, which is more than an observance; it’s a reminder of the powerful role grandparents play in the lives of children. Their love, wisdom, and patience help shape generations, offering stability and support that children carry into adulthood. For many families, grandparents are the keepers of traditions, storytellers of history, and pillars of unconditional love.
But for some children, grandparents step into an even greater role: becoming their primary caregivers. Across the country, an increasing number of grandparents are raising their grandchildren, often during times of family crisis. Whether due to illness, addiction, or economic hardship, these grandparents provide a safe and loving home when it’s needed most. In many cases, they are not simply nurturing family ties – they are preserving them.
This is where kinship foster care shines. Unlike traditional foster care placements, kinship care places children with relatives who know and love them, helping maintain a sense of belonging and cultural identity. Research shows children in kinship care often experience greater stability and emotional well-being.
When grandparents step into this role, they bring deep devotion and life experience that strengthen the fabric of family. Their sacrifices – delaying retirement, taking on parenting duties again, adjusting to new challenges – reflect a love that puts children first.
When we celebrate grandparents, we also honor those who open their hearts and homes as kinship caregivers. Their presence ensures children grow up surrounded by the most powerful gift of all: family love. Learn more about foster and kinship care at https://saintfrancisministries.org/foster-care/.
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