Raising a grandchild can be a financial burden.
A compendium of Georgia laws related to grandparents raising grandchildren is published in "Information on Legal Relationships and Public Benefits for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren," from the Atlanta Legal Aid Society and the Georgia Senior Legal Hotline.
Emergency Funds
When a grandchild moves in or accommodating a grandchild necessitates a move, the grandparent will face additional expenses. Emergency/crisis intervention services are available to help pay for such things as rent, utilities, moving expenses, school expenses and furniture. To be eligible, a grandparent must be over 60, disabled or have income that is no more than 160 percent of the poverty level. For a family of four, for example, 160 percent of poverty level is $2,668 per month. The emergency funds cannot exceed three months of Temporary Assistance for Needy Family benefits in a one-time, lump- sum payment.
Monthly Subsidy
A grandparent who meets the criteria in Section 1 are eligible for a monthly subsidy of $50 per grandchild per month.
Childcare
Childcare is available for grandparents who meet the criteria in Section 1.
Foster Care Training
A grandparent can receive 100 percent of the appropriate foster care payment after participating in foster care training classes. If a grandparent is unable to go to a regular class, he is eligible for one-on-one foster care training.
Agency on Aging Programs
The Division of Aging Services offers a variety of programs for grandparents raising grandchildren. To locate a local office, call 404-657-5258.
Single System of Care
A grandparent can go to any Public Health County Office or a Child Support Office and staff will figure out which specific office is appropriate for meeting your needs. Then staff will contact that office and smooth your path to the services you need.
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