Kinship Care Story: A New Hampshire Grandmother Raising Two Teenagers

Four years ago, a grandmother in New Hampshire stepped in to raise her two grandsons when they needed a safe and stable home. After their mother was arrested on substance-related charges and their father was unable to care for them, the boys were placed in her care. She made the difficult decision to pursue guardianship, ensuring they could stay together and have consistency during a turbulent time.

At the time, the boys were 12 and 14—an age that comes with its own set of challenges. Adjusting to life as a full-time caregiver again wasn’t easy, especially with two teenagers.

“It was one of the hardest decisions of my life,” she shared. “I don’t regret my decision; it was just difficult.”

Over the years, they’ve found their rhythm. Both boys are doing well in school, earning A’s and B’s, and staying active as multi-season athletes. “So to say we are busy would be an understatement,” she said.

Like many kinship caregivers, financial strain has been one of the biggest challenges. Living on a single income, she prioritizes rent and utilities to make sure the boys always have a place to call home. Even with a steady income, the rising cost of everyday expenses can make it hard to keep up.

“I am a single grandmother with one income, a good income, but it always seems short of what is needed to raise two boys,” she explained. Because she earns above the threshold for many state programs, finding occasional support hasn’t always been easy. “Reaching out for help seemed to be impossible, because according to the state, I make too much money, but mind you, I wasn’t asking for anyone to support us, just was asking for that occasional help when I got into a jam.”

That’s where Step Up Parents stepped up.

When a local community partner submitted an application on her behalf, Step Up Parents provided assistance with a heating bill, covering $306.63 in fuel costs to help keep their home warm during the winter. At a time when every expense matters, that support made a real difference.

Over the years, that help has extended beyond a single bill. We’ve offered assistance with utilities and helped ease the pressure around the holidays.

“There were no questions asked, just great people who recognized help was needed at times,” she said. “Honestly, they have been my savior over the years.”