Raising Grandkids

BICKNELL, IND. (WTHI) -      In southern Indiana a handful of families are looking to form a special and much needed support group.

     Because of drug, mental health problems, and even the economy more and more children are being raised by their grandparents.

     An organization in Bicknell is looking to get those grandparents together to help deal with the issue.

     Lilly is the joy of Jackie and John Rogers life.

     The pretty little 4 year old came to them in a difficult circumstance.

     "My son has drug problems, so many do," said Jackie Rogers.  "He left the picture and we kept her and 3 years later we still have her."

     While the Rogers struggled they looked around and noticed they weren't the only grandparents raising a grandchild.

     "It's phenomenal," said Rogers.  "It's almost to an epidemic stage.  If this was a killing disease the CDC would be involved."

     Nationally, one in 4 households is grandparent dominated, and in the Wabash Valley there are some pockets where 4 in 10 grandparents are raising grandkids.

     Lilly's grandparents believe there can be strength in numbers and are working with the Bicknell United Methodist Church to organize a support group for these families.

     "If we can help them in the process somehow that's great," sand Reverend Steve Rundel.

     "We want people to reach out, reach back," said Rogers.  "We want others to know we are a resource for those who do this."

        The folks here believe that the puzzle of raising grand children can sometimes be complicated, but a support group can make the challenge easier.

     The organization is planning a meeting for October 25th at the Bicknell United Methodist Church at 6 in the evening.

     It will include free child care and a light meal.

     To find out more about the support group and how to get involved..go to www.nkgrandparentsraisinggrandchildren.webs.com