The community impact and benefit has already begun and will increase over time to the benefit of all. This support group has immeasurable value in our society and we have only just hit the tip of the iceberg with accessing those Grandparents that care full time for their grandchildren. 

We have grown rapidly since commencement and as such have obviously tapped into an un-met need in our communities. 

Grandparents raising grandchildren has an enormous impact on every avenue of one's life, from children at school explaining to their friends why their grandparents and not their parents attend school functions etc to grandparents repeating the process of parenting when they thought they were entering their retirement years. Not to mention the financial and emotional drain which accompanies providing for and raising children. 

The emotional impact for Grandparents coining to terms with the "loss" of their own children for one reason or another and the emotional roller coaster for a child who is no longer being raised by his or her parents cannot be imagined. Like any issue, crisis or concern, knowing that you are not alone helps one to survive and cope with the day to day stresses of life. 

Grandparents are very much isolated from their peers as they can no longer socialize and loneliness is a big factor. Therefore recognition and support for these people will have enormous benefits to the community as a whole. The cost to Government and the community would be colossal if not for the selfless act of these devoted grandparents. All they need is support, recognition and sharing from our community and community leaders. 

Life is so uncertain that know one knows when they may be placed in our predicament. This people group is growing rapidly in our nation and the rapid growth of "Off Our Rockers" will impact many who do not recognise these grandparents. 

Copyright © 2004 Crossroads Ministries Inc. All rights reserved.
Revised: March 12, 2004 .