Dear Editor:
In 2000, the US Census Bureau included a unique query in its questionnaire: are you raising grandchildren? At that time it was documented that 6 percent of all children under the age of eighteen were being raised by grandparents. The 2010 census was even more shocking. Using data from that year, The Pew Research Center determined that 10 percent of all children under eighteen were being raised by grandparents and other relatives. The parents of these children may be deceased or suffering from mental illness, alcohol and drug dependency, incarceration, or simply are unable to care for their children.
AARP recognizes that these newly created families must be supported and nurtured.
On May 11, AARP New Jersey will partner with Child Advocacy Clinic at Rutgers Law School, Newark, and Grandma K.A.R.E.S. (Kinship Advocacy, Resources, Education & Support), Inc. to present a day-long conference for these devoted caregivers. In addition to resource tables staffed by various service providers, the conference will feature keynote speakers, and workshops including one en espanol. The goal of the conference is to provide a day of information and recognition for kinship-caregivers, those individuals who alter their lives to care for their grandchildren and other relatives.
Louise Eagle
AARP Volunteer