Support and Safety Tips for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

ROCKWALL, TX (April 2, 2026) The Grandparents Raising Grandchildren program provides temporary assistance to grandparents who have primary custody of grandchildren age 18 and younger.  The program’s case managers assess the needs of grandparents and arrange services that support their goals. These services include respite vouchers that can be used for day care or summer camp, help with back-to-school clothing and supplies, and benefits counseling.

The program gives priority to grandparents who care for grandchildren who are medically fragile or have special needs; care for more than one person (i.e. grandchild, elderly family member, disabled adult); have had a hospitalization within the last four weeks, and/or have experienced physical problems because of their care responsibilities; care for grandchildren who have no other support, either paid or unpaid; and/or have income at or below 150% of the federal poverty level ($1,882 for an individual, or $2,554 for a couple).

Visit the Area Agency on Aging referrals page to access screening criteria and referral forms for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren services.  You can also call 800-272-3921 to get more information or make a referral.

In addition, Meals on Wheels Senior Services recognizes that many grandparents are raising or caring for their grandchildren, often stepping in to ensure their health, safety, and overall well-being.

As summer break approaches and children become more active, it’s important to remember that bumps and falls can happen. Protecting children from head injuries starts with proper safety measures, including well-fitted helmets during sports and recreational activities. However, even the best protective equipment cannot fully prevent concussions. Knowing the warning signs is critical. If a child experiences a hit to the head and appears dizzy, confused, unusually sleepy, or not quite themselves, it’s important to speak up and seek medical care.If you suspect a concussion, consult a healthcare professional. They can assess the severity and guide when it is safe for the child to return to normal activities.

This concussion awareness message is supported by grant funding from the Forward Together Grant, awarded to Meals on Wheels Senior Services and made possible by The Grace Clinic of Rockwall.

For additional information, call Meals on Wheels Senior Services of Rockwall County at 972-771-9514.

Meals on Wheels Senior Services of Rockwall County and North Central Texas Area Agency on Aging provided information. The North Central Texas Area Agency on Aging serves adults aged 60 and older and their family caregivers who live in Collin, Denton, Ellis, Erath, Hood, Hunt, Johnson, Kaufman, Navarro, Palo Pinto, Parker, Rockwall, Somervell, and Wise counties. Their mission is to create and maintain a coordinated health and social services network for older adults and family caregivers. They provide services and resources that help older adults maximize their quality of life and live independently. Information, education, and direct services help individuals meet basic needs and make informed decisions. Contact one of their staff members or call 800-272-3921.

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