Grandfamilies Are the Heart of Our Community

Across South Central Massachusetts, grandparents and kinship caregivers are stepping into one of the most important roles a person can take on: raising a child when parents cannot. This act of love stabilizes families, strengthens neighborhoods, and protects children from entering the foster care system, but it also comes with challenges no caregiver should face alone.

The Reality in Massachusetts

Grandfamilies are far more common than most people realize. Statewide data shows:

  • More than 30,000 grandparents in Massachusetts live with their grandchildren.

  • Over 10,000 grandparents are fully responsible for raising their grandchildren.

  • Thousands of additional kinship caregivers, including aunts, uncles, siblings, and close family friends are providing daily care, stability, and love.

These numbers represent real families navigating complex situations with courage and commitment.

The Challenges Caregivers Face Every Day

Grandparents and kinship caregivers often step into caregiving during moments of crisis. Many face:

  • Legal barriers such as guardianship, custody, and access to medical or educational records

  • Financial strain, especially for caregivers living on fixed incomes

  • Emotional stress from supporting children who may have experienced trauma, loss, or instability.

  • Educational hurdles, including school enrollment, special education needs, and communication with teachers.

  • Health challenges, balancing their own well-being with the demands of raising children again.

  • Social isolation, feeling unseen or unsupported in a role they never expected.

These challenges are real, but so is the strength of the caregivers who rise to meet them.

You Do Not Have to Do This Alone

The most important truth we want every caregiver to hear is that YOU ARE NOT ALONE. WE ARE HERE TO HELP.

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren South Central MA exists to ensure every caregiver has access to:

  • Connection and community

  • Guidance through legal, educational, and emotional challenges

  • Practical tools and resources

  • A safe, welcoming space to share, learn, and breathe.

No caregiver should have to navigate this journey without support, and in our community, you never will.

Our Commitment

WE HONOR YOUR COURAGE.

WE SEE YOUR DEDICATION.

WE RECOGNIZE YOUR STRENGTH.

And we are here, every step of the way, to help your family thrive.