Who Are Kinship Families And Grandfamilies?

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Grandfamilies or kinship families are families in which children reside with and are being raised by grandparents, other extended family members, and adults with whom they have a close family-like relationship such as godparents and close family friends. About 7.8 million children across the country live in households headed by grandparents or other relatives. About 2.5 million grandparents report they are responsible for their grandchildren’s needs. In about a third of these homes neither

of the children’s parents are in the home. Despite facing many barriers, research shows that the children in grandfamilies thrive. Caregivers also experience benefits like an increased sense of purpose in life.

Children are often raised in kinship care due to parental substance abuse, incarceration, neglect, abuse, economic hardship, health issues, or teenage pregnancy. Relatives step in to provide a stable, loving home, ensuring children stay connected to family during challenging times.