Older kinship caregivers stepping in to raise Philadelphia’s youth
The latest U.S. Census Bureau data shows that nearly 2.5 million older relatives, including grandparents, aged 60 and above, are responsible for raising their younger kin. About one-third of these children are 6 or younger. This is known as “kinship care,” and it’s on the rise across the country.
In Philadelphia, the situation is no different. Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) has witnessed an increasing number of older adults stepping up as primary caregivers for their young relatives.
The causes behind this shift are often rooted in difficult and traumatic events, such as parental illness, behavioral health challenges or financial instability, that force older family members back into the role of caregiver. While these older caregivers offer love, stability and a sense of home, the challenges they face can be complex and often overwhelming.
PCA’s Caregiver Support Program provides assistance to kinship caregivers in Philadelphia. Caregivers must be age 55 or older and the primary caregiver of a relative child under 18 who is not their biological child. The caregiver must live with the child they are caring for and meet specific income requirements to qualify for services.
Raising children for a second time comes with financial strains; legal hurdles; and difficulties accessing entitlement programs, health care and education systems. Many of these older caregivers struggle to navigate the intricate web of support available to them. PCA’s Caregiver Support Program has emerged as a critical lifeline for kinship caregivers across Philadelphia, helping them manage the burdens of caregiving.
“Kinship caregivers are truly unsung heroes in our community,” said Cheryl Clark-Woods, director of PCA’s Caregiver Support Program. “They step in during some of the most challenging moments, providing not just a home, but also love, stability and support. We recognize the unique challenges they face, and we’re dedicated to ensuring they have access to the resources and assistance they need to succeed in raising the next generation.”
PCA’s Caregiver Support Program provides eligible older relatives with services, support and financial reimbursement to ease the stress of raising children. These services range from respite child care, which offers caregivers a break, to counseling for both the caregivers and children. The program also can provide reimbursement for essential child-rearing needs, including educational supplies, summer camps, recreational activities and seasonal clothing, helping children thrive despite challenging circumstances.
“Raising my granddaughter wasn’t something I expected at this stage of life, but I had to step in,” said Donna Modelski, who has been a kinship caregiver with the Caregiver Support Program for seven years. “It’s challenging – financially and emotionally – trying to navigate the systems meant to help young people today. But it’s about providing love and stability for the kids who’ve already been through so much. This program and the PCA staff have been an incredible lifeline, helping us manage legal, educational and emotional hurdles. Despite the challenges, seeing her feel safe and thrive makes it all worth it.”
In addition to direct support, PCA helps caregivers access community resources, manage legal concerns (such as custody and guardianship) and receive benefits counseling. PCA can also provide assistance to those in need of home modifications or assistive devices to accommodate caregiving needs.
As the number of kinship caregivers in Philadelphia continues to grow, PCA remains a trusted resource, committed to helping older relatives provide loving and stable homes for their young charges. Caregivers in need of support are encouraged to contact PCA’s Helpline at 215-765-9040 to learn more about the services available to them.
Support for Philadelphia’s caregivers
PCA’s Caregiver Support Program provides caregivers with respite care, adult day services, benefits counseling, training and financial aid. The program serves caregivers: 18-plus caring for someone 60-plus with needs or dementia; 55-plus caring for a relative child younger than 18; or 55-plus caring for a relative 18-59 with a disability. Eligible caregivers may receive up to $600 in monthly reimbursements for caregiving-related expenses and up to $5,000 for home modifications and assistive devices. The program’s goal is to help caregivers manage their responsibilities, while maintaining their own well-being. For more information on eligibility and available resources, contact PCA’s Helpline at 215-765-9040.
