Navigating Resources for Grandfamilies

A grandfamily is defined as a family in which grandparents are the primary caregivers for their grandchildren. Nearly 8 million children in the United States are raised by their grandparents or other relatives, according to Generations United, opens a new window.

If you're a guardian or are exploring your options, read on for information about community organizations that can help you!

Web Resources

• Start by looking at Grandfamilies's list of resources and organizations, opens a new window to help grandparents raising children in Colorado. From tax credits to educational programs, you may not be aware of all the resources available to you.
• The Colorado Department of Human Services, opens a new window also has extensive information for people navigating kinship caregiving, and this is a particularly good resource if you need legal aid. 

Support Groups & Education

It's important to feel like part of a community on your parenting journey. There are several support groups for grandfamilies in the Denver metro area, but here are some highlights to look into. 

• The Grandparent-2-Guardian, opens a new window program is a social support group for grandparents in guardian roles that is offered through Arapahoe County Human Services. Call 303-752-8908 for more information or to register. 
• Catholic Charities of Denver offers support for people of any faith who are raising their grandchildren. Attend family social events, meet up with support groups or learn parenting skills through the Kinship Caregiver Program, opens a new window. 
• Shiloh House, opens a new window is a nonprofit organization based in Littleton that offers counseling services to help children, but it also partners with Families First, opens a new window to provide parenting classes that are open to grandparents and other kin who are raising children.

Family Activities

Try new, fun activities with your family!

• The Arapahoe County Early Childhood Council maintains a calendar of family-friendly events, opens a new window that are either low cost or no cost to attend. While you are on their website, check out some of their programs designed to support families, opens a new window through home safety guidance, assistance in finding child care and other needs.
• Come to the library! Arapahoe Libraries offers events for families of all kinds, from storytimes to entertaining performances. Browse the library by age on the Arapahoe Libraries website to learn more about services available.