As a grandparent raising grandchildren in Oklahoma, you know that stepping into this role can bring both challenges and rewards. Across the state, nearly 90,000 children are being raised by grandparents, and this number doesn’t even include the many informal kinship arrangements that go unreported.
Understanding the unique challenges you face and knowing where to find support can make a significant difference in your day-to-day life. This guide will help you learn about the specific resources available in Oklahoma and how you can benefit from them.
The Challenges Faced by Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
Emotional and Psychological Challenges
Raising grandchildren often comes with a mix of emotions. You might experience grief, sadness, and a sense of loss over the situation that led to this change in your life. Feelings of disappointment or even anger and resentment can surface as you adjust to your new role. These emotions can sometimes become overwhelming and interfere with your daily life. It’s important to address these feelings and seek mental health support when needed. Connecting with other grandparents in similar situations through support groups can provide emotional relief and a sense of community.
Legal and Custody Issues
Navigating the legal system to obtain guardianship or custody of your grandchildren can be daunting. Without legal custody, you may face difficulties enrolling your grandchildren in school, accessing medical care, and making other important decisions. Fortunately, there are resources available to help you understand your rights and secure the necessary legal standing. Organizations like Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma offer free legal assistance and self-help forms to guide you through the process.
It’s crucial to seek out these resources to ensure that you have the legal authority to care for your grandchildren properly.
Financial Strain
Taking on the role of primary caregiver for your grandchildren can also put a strain on your finances. Many grandparents live on fixed incomes, such as Social Security, and the additional costs of raising children can be overwhelming. From providing food and clothing to covering educational expenses, the financial burden can quickly add up.
However, there are assistance programs designed to help alleviate some of this strain. Programs like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can provide financial support to help cover the costs of raising grandchildren.
Go to Benefits.gov to find which programs you may be eligible.
Oklahoma-Specific Resources and Support
Sunbeam Family Services
One of the most valuable resources for grandparents raising grandchildren in Oklahoma is Sunbeam Family Services. This organization offers a variety of services to support you in your caregiving role. Sunbeam Family Services provides support groups specifically for grandparents raising grandchildren, helping you connect with others who understand your situation. These groups offer a space to share experiences, gain emotional support, and learn about additional resources.
Sunbeam also provides practical assistance such as school supply assistance and holiday assistance, ensuring your grandchildren have what they need for their education and special occasions.
Tulsa Support Group at Asbury United Methodist Church
If you are in the Tulsa area, the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren support group at Asbury United Methodist Church is a fantastic resource.
Contact Ray Nash at 918.760.9113 or rnash@mcgrawok.com for times and dates.
Additional Support Group Resources for Grand families in Oklahoma
Legal Aid Services
Legal issues can be a significant hurdle for grandparents raising grandchildren. Whether you need help with custody, guardianship, or other legal matters, Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma can provide the support you need. They offer free legal assistance and self-help forms, making it easier for you to understand and secure your legal rights. Accessing these services can help you gain the legal authority required to make decisions for your grandchildren’s well-being.
Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma also provides resources for stopping or lowering garnishments, filing FEMA appeals, and understanding guardianship processes. These services are invaluable for ensuring that you have the necessary legal protections in place.
Oklahoma 211 and OKLegalConnect
Oklahoma 211 is a comprehensive resource that connects you with local support services. By dialing 211, you can access information on a wide range of assistance programs, including food banks, housing assistance, and healthcare services. This resource is essential for finding immediate help and connecting with organizations that can provide ongoing support.
OKLegalConnect is another valuable tool that offers a wealth of legal resources and information. This service helps you understand your legal rights and find the assistance you need to address various legal challenges.
Both Oklahoma 211 and OKLegalConnect are excellent starting points for accessing the support your family needs.
National Resources
In addition to local resources, several national organizations provide support for grandparents raising grandchildren. The National Council on Aging offers a variety of programs and services designed to help older adults, including those raising grandchildren. Their resources can help you with financial planning, healthcare, and accessing benefits.
Other national resources include GrandFamilies, Generations United and the AARP Grandfamilies Guide. These organizations offer comprehensive guides, legal resources, and policy information to support grand families. By utilizing these national resources, you can supplement the support you receive locally and ensure access to a broad range of assistance.
EASY Wireless and Lifeline Program
As a grandparent raising grandchildren in Oklahoma, staying connected with essential services and support networks is crucial. EASY Wireless offers a valuable service through the federal Lifeline Program, which provides free cell phone service and data to qualifying grandparents or their qualifying grandchildren.
Eligibility and Application Process
To qualify for the Lifeline Program, you must participate in certain government assistance programs such as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), Medicaid, or SSI (Supplemental Security Income). Alternatively, you can qualify based on your income if it is at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines.
Applying for the Lifeline Program is straightforward.
Visit an EASY Wireless Store near you.
You can visit an EASY Wireless retail store in Oklahoma, where customer service agents will assist you with the application process, help you determine your eligibility and if qualified you’ll leave the store with FREE Cell phone and Data service plus a new Smartphone*!
*smartphones provided to those eligible for this additional benefit.
Apply Online
No time to visit a store?
Apply and qualify in just minutes online and we’ll ship your FREE SIM card kit to your door.
Click to see if you’re eligible for FREE Cell Phone Service from EASY Wireless.
Having access to a free cell phone and data service is essential for managing your responsibilities as a grandparent raising grandchildren. It allows you to stay connected with healthcare providers, support groups, and educational resources. This connectivity ensures that you can easily access online resources, manage appointments, and stay in touch with family members.
Embracing the Role of Grandparent Caregiver in Oklahoma
Raising grandchildren in Oklahoma brings unique challenges, but also provides incredible rewards. By understanding and utilizing the resources available, you can provide a stable, loving environment for your grandchildren. Whether it’s connecting organizations offering support groups, accessing financial assistance programs, or securing legal aid, there are many resources designed to help you succeed in your caregiving role.
