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Successful Aging - Archived Article
Grandparents Help In Schools & Child Care Centers
A three-year old telling his mother about his day in childcare casually said that after his nap is the sad time of day. Surprised to hear that there was a regular "sad time", she naturally asked why. He replied, "Because that's when Grandma Mary leaves."
Who was this Grandma Mary, and what does she do? She is a special older person who volunteers 20 hours a week at a childcare program. She is a member of the Foster Grandparent Program of the Broome County Office for Aging. Over 58 Foster Grandparents volunteer every day with children who need some extra help or attention. They help children learn the alphabet, play a game, or just hold and hug a little one. Foster Grandparents can be found in schools, Head Start programs, and day care centers throughout Broome County.
Why volunteer through the program? You receive non-taxable earnings of $51 per week, a free meal everyday at your volunteer site, and help with transportation costs. But there are other benefits that may be even more important--making a difference in a child's life, being useful, learning new things, and meeting new people.
We currently have openings for ten more Foster Grandparents. There is a one-week, paid training session scheduled for August. To join the program, persons must be age 60 or older, and be income eligible. For more information, call the Foster Grandparent Program at 607.778.2089. This may be just the opportunity to share your love and time that you've been looking for.