Blog
A Legacy of Care: Embracing Kinship Caregiving through the Generations
Every month, A Second Chance, Inc. highlights the voices of our kinship families. As an organization dedicated to creating a secure and nurturing environment for children in the care of relatives or close family friends, commonly referred to as kinship care, we understand the significance of acknowledging the real-life experiences of caregivers, birth parents, and children. Our goal is to spotlight invaluable insights that contribute to genuine narratives and shape meaningful programs. Through these conversations, we aim to promote understanding and establish a supportive community for kinship families. This month, we were privileged to engage in conversation with kinship caregiver, Tanya Hopes, about her journey.
Tanya Hopes never imagined she’d find herself in the role of kinship caregiver for her great-grandchildren, but life’s unexpected turns often lead to the most rewarding experiences. Nestled in her cozy Pittsburgh home, surrounded by the joyful chaos of her great-grandchildren, Tanya reflected on her journey with a sense of profound fulfillment.
“The experience has been wonderful,” Tanya shared. “These are my great-grandbabies. It’s been so long since my last baby was born. This journey has taught me a lot and I’m grateful I could do this.”
Tanya’s path to kinship caregiving began when her granddaughter, struggling with the demands of caring for a set of newborn twins and managing her six children, reached out for help. “It all started with my granddaughter,” Tanya recalled. “She couldn’t take care of them properly, so I stepped in. I said, ‘of course,’ because we are family. I didn’t want my great-grandbabies floating around. I wanted them to be together and safe.”
The decision to take on this responsibility was not made lightly. Tanya was aware of the challenges but was driven by a deep commitment to keeping her family united. “Scarlet, who will be 8 soon, has two sisters and a brother she doesn’t see,” Tanya explained. “It broke my heart to think of them being apart. I wanted to make sure Scarlet and her siblings stayed together and had each other.”
Navigating the world of kinship caregiving came with its own set of challenges and learning experiences. Tanya found herself supported by a network of caseworkers, lawyers, and teachers who guided her through the process. “This has really been a learning journey for me,” she admitted. “The system now involves the parents and supports them, which is something I really appreciate.”
One of the highlights of this support has been the involvement of caseworkers who created a detailed biography for the children. “I think it’s a really fun thing,” Tanya said with a smile. “It talks about the kids, their peers, and us as a family. It’s a wonderful way to keep track of their progress and ensure they’re doing well.”
Maintaining a positive outlook and finding joy in the daily challenges of caregiving comes naturally to Tanya. “I find joy with my great-grandbabies every day. As long as I know they are safe and happy, I find joy in every moment with them.”
Her experience has also brought personal growth and a new perspective. “Having my great-grandbabies around has given me more patience,” Tanya noted. “It makes me feel younger and more energetic. God has given me the strength to handle this, and I’m grateful for that.”
For those considering becoming a kinship caregiver, Tanya offers heartfelt advice.
You have to do this from your heart. It’s not about the paycheck. It’s about having the love and patience to care for these children. It’s something that has to come from within.
Tanya Hopes
Tanya’s story is a testament to the strength of family bonds and the profound impact that love and dedication can have on the lives of those in need. Her journey as a kinship caregiver highlights the importance of keeping families together, providing unwavering support, and finding joy in every step of the way.
Every day with my great-grandbabies is a blessing. It’s all about making sure they are safe, loved, and happy. That’s what matters most.
Tanya Hopes
Tanya’s journey as a kinship caregiver beautifully illustrates the profound impact that love, patience, and family commitment can have. Her unwavering dedication to keeping her great-grandbabies together and providing them with a safe, nurturing environment highlights the incredible strength of familial bonds. As Tanya reflected on her experience, she embodied the essence of selfless caregiving, showing that the greatest reward comes not from accolades or financial gain, but from the joy of seeing her great-grandchildren thrive.