Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

The Grandparents Raising Grandchildren program, run by Catholic Charities of Washtenaw County, supports relatives in the Ann Arbor area who are raising children when the parents cannot. It is built for the unique challenges these families face: caregivers who expected to be enjoying their later years instead find themselves managing school, childhood development, and household needs all over again, often on a fixed income.

The program is free to participate in (voluntary contributions are welcomed) and centers on community and practical help. It offers support groups that create a sense of connection for both the caregivers and the children in their care, educational workshops, and newsletters that highlight local events and resources. Caregivers can also get help accessing financial aid, clothing, food, and other basic necessities, along with guidance on self-care and on understanding children’s developmental needs. The aim is to reduce the isolation that multigenerational caregiving families often feel and to surround them with peer support.

This resource matters because kinship caregivers raising children frequently fall outside traditional support systems, yet they take on a profound responsibility. A local program like this gives Washtenaw County families a dependable, welcoming place to turn. Caregivers can call (734) 971-9781, extension 8 for Senior Services, or visit the Catholic Charities office at 4925 Packard Street in Ann Arbor. For grandparents and other relatives stepping up for the children in their lives, it offers both a community and a practical safety net.