Grandfamilies Face Gaps in Support, Advocates Seek Policy Changes

Greenville Spartanburg Asheville Anderson, SC, September 18, 2026 —

Grandparents raising their grandchildren, a demographic known as “grandfamilies,” are facing significant challenges due to perceived gaps in financial and social support systems, according to advocates. These families often navigate complex caregiving responsibilities without the same level of resources typically allocated to children in formal foster care programs.

The strain on these households can be considerable, as caregivers frequently manage the needs of their grandchildren without adequate assistance. This situation can lead to both personal and financial difficulties for the grandparent caregivers.

In response to these challenges, various organizations are actively working to bridge the support gap. Their efforts include connecting grandfamilies with essential resources, providing access to legal aid, and fostering community support networks.

Beyond immediate resource provision, these organizations are also advocating for broader policy changes. The goal is to ensure that grandfamilies receive necessary benefits and stipends, aiming to alleviate the financial burdens and provide a more stable environment for the children in their care. The specific details regarding the nature and extent of these policy changes and the timeline for their implementation were not provided.

The lack of comprehensive support stands in contrast to the structured assistance often available through the formal foster care system, highlighting a critical area for improved social services and policy intervention.

Story summarized from the original created by Heather Graf, Shannon Weston on www.foxcarolina.com, see more information here.

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