Released: October 13, 2023
Delaware County Council and the County’s Department of Human Services and Community Support held a Grandparents Resource Fair on Thursday, October 12, at the Media Borough Community Center to connect grandparents raising grandchildren or great grandchildren to a variety of departments and organizations that provide resources for older caregivers.
An array of resources, including counseling, support groups, legal assistance, and financial aid, were on display for Delaware County grandparents seeking assistance in their pivotal role as caregivers.
Participating organizations included the Delaware County Department of Human Services and Community Support, the Delaware County Office of Services for Aging (COSA), Children and Youth Services, Delaware County Libraries, the Delaware County Bar Association, the Early Learning Resource Center, and representatives from Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon’s Office and Senator Tim Kearney’s Office.
“We know that so many grandparents have stepped up here in Delaware County to provide care for their grandchildren, and often their great-grandchildren," said Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor. "Their selfless dedication to the most vulnerable is inspiring, and we're committed to providing these grandparents with the support and resources they deserve to ensure brighter futures for all.”
Grandparents continue to play a significant role as caregivers for children across the nation and here in Delaware County. In response, both communities and organizations have come to acknowledge the imperative for dedicated support services customized for these caregiving grandparents. Such circumstances can bring about emotional, financial, and legal challenges for older adults, highlighting the necessity for comprehensive support programs and policy initiatives to cater to the distinctive needs of these families.
“We know that our older residents benefit from these resources,” said Sandra Garrison, Director of the Delaware County Department of Human Services and Community Support. “I’m happy that we could host this event and help connect so many families with what is available to them.”
Thank you to all the organizations that participated on Thursday.