Parishes, church offer support for Grandparents raising Grandchildren

By Cliff Gorski
Chief Communications Officer
Executive Editor 

WHITNEY – It’s a blustery autumn evening as people make their way into Saint Cecilia Parish’s social hall, where they are warmly greeted by Deacon Mark Ferlin and his wife, Kathy. Benedictine Father James Podlesny gathers them together in prayer before they enjoy a delicious meal of roasted turkey.

Everyone at this monthly gathering has an individual story, but they all share the same situation – they are Grandparents Raising Grandchildren.

After the meal, children participate in activities while grandparents share stories, tips, resources and tears.

Deacon Ferlin said when the ecumenical program, sponsored by Sacred Heart Parish, Youngstown, Saint Cecilia Parish and Trinity Lutheran Church, Latrobe, began about five years ago, a handful of grandparents showed up. Now, dozens gather each month.

Teresa Mamone has been attending for three years.  She and her grandson make the 40-minute trip from North Huntingdon because she finds support and information she needs.

“We are all walking in each other’s shoes and we understand each other like people outside of that realm wouldn’t understand,” Mamone said. “It’s sad to know that there is such a need for this, but thank goodness for grandparents. Where would these children be?”

It’s hard to find accurate estimates of how many grandparents are raising their grandchildren. AARP Pennsylvania places the number at more than 80,000 grandparents raising close to a quarter-million children because of economic hardship, incarceration or addiction.

“They are heroes,” Deacon Ferlin said. “They have all been thrown curveballs and their faith is incredible and they are getting through it.”

Sandy and Dave Barkley of Derry have been attending Grandparents Raising Grandchildren meetings since it began.

“It’s been wonderful and it’s been growing by word of mouth,” Dave said. “We don’t get to be grandparents; we have to be the parents.”

Rose Mary Baird of Latrobe, who is raising her 13-year-old granddaughter, said many of her friends wonder how she has the energy to parent a second time around. She said the Blessed Mother gives her strength, along with the support she finds at the monthly gatherings.

“We respect each other so much, and it is so good to see each other and learn from each other in our shared but very different situations,” she said.

Despite concerns about parenting in their senior years, the grandparents say they will always work hard to make their grandchildren feel loved, safe and happy.

Grandparents raising grandchild, nieces or nephews can get information by calling 724-557-4450 or visiting grglatrobe.com.