Resource fair aims to help grandparents and others raising relative children

In Oregon, approximately 30,000 children are being raised by non-parent relatives. Washington County’s Relatives as Parents Program (RAPP) is partnering with Oregon Kinship Navigator to host a resource fair on Tuesday, September 26, 4-7 p.m., at the Hillsboro Brookwood Library.

The goal of the event is to connect kinship families with services and agencies that can support them in what can be a challenging parenting journey. Children are welcome; there will be activities for them as well as refreshments.

The fair is scheduled in September to celebrate National Kinship Care Month, which recognizes and celebrates those who provide around the clock support, protection and care for their extended family members.

“Parenting a relative child later in life is an unexpected and often isolating experience for grandparents and other older relatives,” Program Coordinator Shannon Baggerman said. “The Relatives as Parents Program is one piece of the puzzle to provide support and help families get through the day.”

“I found Washington County’s Relative as Parents Program soon after I unexpectedly became the primary caregiver for my one-year-old granddaughter and three-year-old grandson,” RAPP participant Maggie Cortinas said. “They helped me get the supplies I needed to care for my grandkids in my home, including a bed for my granddaughter and a stroller to take them to appointments. I highly recommend that anyone in a similar situation access RAPP.”

There is still time for additional organizations that provide services and resources for kinship families to participate. Send an email to [email protected].

Anyone needing interpretation or accommodations to fully participate should call 503-310-5550 or email [email protected] by September 20.

The Relatives as Parents Program is part of Washington County Disability, Aging and Veteran Services, a division of the Department of Health and Human Services. Learn more at www.washingtoncountyor.gov/davs/relatives-parents-program.