My grandchildren recently came into my care—what should I do first?
Every situation is unique, but a great first step is to join a GRG Support Group. These groups go beyond emotional support—they’re a lifeline for many, offering practical help with everyday challenges and connecting you to a community you’ll be glad you joined.
You can also reach out to Kinship Navigator for personalized guidance and resources tailored to your needs.
I’m not a grandparent, but I’m raising a relative’s child. Can I still get help?
Absolutely. While many families in this situation are headed by grandparents—which is why you’ll often see terms like “GRG” (Grandparents Raising Grandchildren) or “Grandfamilies”—our support and resources are meant for all kinship caregivers. That includes aunts, uncles, older siblings, extended family, or close family friends who have stepped in to raise a child.
Whether you’re providing short-term care or a long-term home, you are part of a kinship care network, and you deserve support. Our resources, tip sheets, and support groups are here to help you navigate this journey.
What resources are available to me?
The resources available to you can vary depending on your custody situation. Whether you have formal custody, are a kinship foster parent, or are informally caring for a grandchild or relative’s child, there are different levels of services that can help.
We recommend starting with our Custody Options page, which outlines the different types of custody and what each may mean for you and your family.
You may also want to contact the Kinship Navigator Program. They provide free and personal guidance to help you find and access local services specific to your situation.
If you’re still unsure where to start, send us an email with some information about yourself and what type of custody you have.
Where can I find help caring for my grandchildren? I really need a break.
Caring for your grandchildren is an incredible act of love—but it can also be overwhelming.
Depending on your custody situation, there may be some financial programs available to support you. Some caregivers may qualify for services through Temporary Assistance for Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC), which can help with child care, financial support, and other services.
If you’re feeling stretched thin or unsure of where to turn, we strongly encourage you to join a GRG Support Group—we have more than 50 across Massachusetts.
These groups often make the difference between surviving and thriving. In addition to emotional support from others who understand your journey, they can help you access resources like respite care, financial assistance, and expert guidance. You’re not alone—support is closer than you think.
How do I help my grandchild cope with trauma, loss, or confusion?
Many children in grandfamilies have experienced difficult transitions that can bring up big feelings like grief, anger, confusion, or fear. We encourage you to explore the events and workshops we offer, which are designed to help caregivers and children navigate these challenges together.
You’ll also find helpful resources in our Support Services Library and we encourage you to connect with one of our GRG Support Groups—these groups are a lifeline for many of our grandparents and kin.
What if I need emotional support too?
Raising grandchildren or kin can be tough, and emotional support is just as important for you as it is your kids. Our GRG Support Groups offer both—a caring community, trusted info on legal rights, schools, healthcare, and help navigating systems like DCF.
Where can I find encouragement and hear from others like me?
For instant gratification, visit our Words of Inspiration page to discover the real impact of raising grandchildren on families and communities. You can read real stories and uplifting messages from grandparents and kin raising children. This information can offer comfort, hope, and a sense of community.
For ongoing support, consider joining one of our GRG Support Groups—where you’ll find practical help, emotional support, and connection with others who truly understand.
We encourage you to sign up and stay connected with us to receive regular updates, helpful resources, and inspiring stories—delivered straight to your inbox. We’ll keep you in the loop every step of the way.
My grandchildren moved in with me because their parents are coping with addiction. How can I help them with their feelings of shame and embarrassment?
Parental addiction is one of the most common reasons grandparents and kin step in to raise children. You can help your grandchildren understand why their mom or dad is unable to take care of them right now. Addiction is a disease based in the body and brain—and it’s hard to talk about.
Our Talking to Grandchildren About a Parent’s Substance Use Tip Sheet offers supportive language and practical tools to help children understand and process their family situation in a healthy way. It provides compassionate guidance for approaching these tough conversations.
You’ll also find a list of helpful programs and services in the tip sheet and in our Support Services Library, many of which are also referenced in the tip sheet. These can connect you to counseling, educational support, and other resources to help both you and your grandchildren.
And remember—you don’t have to do this alone. Our GRG Support Groups offer a safe space to talk, share, and connect with others who understand what you’re going through.
I’ve just discovered The Commission on the Status of Grandparents Raising Grandchildren—how do I know I can trust this information?
We get it. When you’re stepping into a new and overwhelming situation, trust doesn’t come easy. That’s why the Commission is led by people who have lived it—grandparents and kin who raised children themselves and saw how hard it can be. Since 2008, we’ve been pushing for better support, more resources, and stronger recognition for families like yours. We’re not here to judge—we’re here to walk beside you. Still not convinced? Learn more about us.
How can I stay informed and connected?
We encourage you to sign up for our emails to receive regular updates, helpful resources, and inspiring stories. We’ll keep you in the loop every step of the way.
You could also consider joining one of our GRG Support Groups—where you’ll find a community of others who understand your journey and can offer both emotional support and practical guidance. We’re here to keep you in the loop every step of the way.
Can I talk to someone directly?
Yes! You can email us for support and information. You might also consider reaching out to Kinship Navigator, a program designed to connect you with personalized help and resources.
My grandchildren have been placed with me through DCF. What do I need to know when DCF is involved?
Suddenly having a child in your care can feel overwhelming—it’s hard to know what tomorrow looks like, let alone the next year. You’re not alone, and you’re in the right place.
The Commission has helped many caregivers find their way through this exact situation. Our resources can help you move out of uncertainty, with information that supports you and the child(ren) in your care. Start by reviewing the information on when the Department of Children and Families (DCF) is involved in the Support Services Library section under Resources.
We strongly encourage you to join a GRG Support Group. These groups offer more than just emotional support—they connect you with a community that understands what you’re going through and often has the answers you need to move forward.
Is there anything I need to know when deciding on whether to adopt my grandchildren or maintain permanent guardianship?
Every family’s situation is different, and choosing between adoption and permanent guardianship is a deeply personal decision.
Before moving forward, we recommend visiting our Legal section under Resources, where you’ll find a helpful overview of all the different custody options—including key considerations around financial support, long-term stability, and legal rights. Many families find that permanent guardianship provides more flexibility and continued access to state support, but it’s important to weigh all your options.
I can’t afford a lawyer. Do I need one to get guardianship of my grandchild?
You may not need a lawyer to file for guardianship.
We recommend starting with your local Court Service Center for basic information and assistance with forms. Many probate courts also offer access to a “Lawyer of the Day”—a free legal professional who can review your case, help with paperwork, and give guidance on whether you’ll need further legal help. While they won’t represent you, they can help you understand your options and advise you on if you do need a lawyer.
For more information on these services, or if you do need legal representation, visit the Legal section under Resources for affordable options.
