Local Nonprofit Spreads Holiday Cheer to Grandfamilies in Need

Community members in Havertown, Pennsylvania, have come together to support families in need through a holiday gift drive organized by the nonprofit organization, Grands Stepping Up. This initiative aims to provide presents to grandfamilies, specifically those where grandparents or kinship caregivers are raising children due to unavailable parents.

Founded by Karen Barnes, Grands Stepping Up focuses on assisting these caregivers. “We assist grand and kinship caregivers that are caring for their grandchildren or their nieces and nephews because the parents are not available to do so,” Barnes explained. Her own experience as a guardian for her granddaughter inspired her to create this support network.

In her journey, Barnes encountered many individuals facing similar challenges. “I had met a plethora of people along the way and realized that we were all suffering or in commonality with one another. And I just wanted to do something to be a conduit of change and to support them,” she shared. This sense of community has become a cornerstone of the organization’s mission.

Grands Stepping Up operates a resource center known as Denis’ Pantry, named in memory of Barnes’ late brother. Located at Bethany Church in Havertown, the pantry distributes essential items, including food, toiletries, and baby products, on the second and fourth Saturday of each month throughout the year.

During this holiday season, the organization has expanded its outreach. Both grandparent guardian households and other families in need will receive gifts from the holiday drive. “Our biggest accomplishment is hope,” Barnes stated. “Giving people, families, children, hope that they’re not alone and that they are going to be okay.”

The community’s involvement in the gift drive reflects a strong spirit of giving and support. Local residents have donated presents, ensuring that children in these families can experience the joy of the holiday season. This initiative not only addresses immediate needs but also fosters a sense of belonging among caregivers and their families.

For those interested in supporting Grands Stepping Up or learning more about their initiatives, additional information can be found on their website. The impact of this nonprofit extends beyond material assistance; it reinforces the message that no one has to face their struggles alone during this festive time.