Often times in the world of kinship care we hear about female caregivers. While information from the U.S. Census reports that there are 4.5 million grandmothers who are primarily responsible for the care of their grandchildren, there are also 2.5 million grandfathers who assume the role independent of having a spouse, wife, or female counter part.
This month we wanted to highlight the importance of grandfathers that are raising their grandchildren and recognize the tremendous work they are doing. Many times women are the primary caregivers in multiple situations and men aren’t given the responsibility to be the primary caregiver. Many professionals in the child welfare system are wanting to move towards a more inclusive environment that brings light to male caregivers. Their role is important in the lives of their kinship children as well as our culture. Here are some ways as professionals to be more inclusive.
1. Highlight Male Kinship Stories
2. Connect with male specific resources in your community
3. Connect with Male Caregivers- Give them a voice.
We wanted to take the time to tell our male kinship caregivers that we are here for you. We know you have an important story to tell and the role you play is IMPORTANT.
Here is Martin’s story.
Martin is a single grandfather raising his granddaughter. Martin got his 4 year old granddaughter placed in his care through the Department of Family Services and was referred to our agency. Our navigators helped him with the guardianship process and referred him to other organizations in his area such as Caregiver Relative Power. Martin now has permanent guardianship of his granddaughter, and she is a thriving 6 year old. Martin has utilized our program and reached out for support many times. Martin is just one of many male caregivers doing this on his own. We want you to know if you are a grandfather raising your grandchildren, you are not alone.
