PRESS RELEASES

The Upper Room, a Family Resource Center is excited to share it has received funding through New Hampshire Children’s Trust, in support of it’s new Kinship Program geared at connecting with Grandparents or who are raising their grandchildren. This program also works with other families where a sibling, or extended family member is caring for a relative who is a child they are now raising.

The work began in early April and The Upper Room connected with the YMCA in Londonderry to see how it could support the PASTA group which supports grandparents. Acting in support of the amazing efforts already happening at The Y, The Upper Room shared in the meetings and began offering additional case management, and concrete supports to these families. Helping them find resources for food, bills and summer camps, as well as being part of their support network. Also acting as a sounding board, offering individual support, and problem solving some of the challenges of this period in time.

In May, SoRock Coalition for Youth, connected and asked to be part of the efforts as well, so this southern NH region is thriving at supporting grandparents in many communities. “During a very unpredictable time, the work being done with grand families is critical. Lack of connections, and increased out of school time, means that grandparents have a higher responsibility for the care, education and social emotional being of their grandchildren. Combine these new responsibilities in an uncertain time and families feel the stress, and children feel it too.” States Brenda Guggisberg, Executive Director.   

The Upper Room, is working to help families thrive, and these families are engaging in groups, on site activities at The YMCA in Londonderry, and through face to face visits, to offer support and assistance, from our Kinship Navigator. “When we all work together, we are able to offer a wider array of services and problem solve together. An example of partnership this summer came when The YMCA and Upper Room were able to work together to help families find affordable summer camps for their grandchildren”. States Guggisberg “We realize that when we can each help in some way, that children and families have a stronger ability to manage challenges, and thrive. We know that through the connections, and working together we can build supports that give the greatest assistance during the greatest times of need”.       

The Upper Room plans to continue to partner with area agencies, to support grand parents, and also has created individualized services and support available to anyone interested in receiving those services in our region. For more information about the Kinship Program, Contact Seren at 603-437-8477 or selizabeth@urteachers.org