Overview:

The Foster Grandparent Program in Texas is recruiting volunteers aged 55 and older with limited incomes to mentor children with special needs or those facing academic, social, or emotional challenges. The program, which provides a monthly tax-free stipend, served over 21,000 children and logged over 300,000 volunteer hours from July 2023 to June 2024. Both mentors and children benefit from the program, with volunteers reporting a renewed sense of purpose and students showing improved outcomes.

AUSTIN – The Foster Grandparent Program is recruiting volunteers to mentor children as the program celebrates its 60th anniversary this summer.

As part of the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, the Foster Grandparent Program provides an opportunity for people 55 and older who have limited incomes to mentor children with special and exceptional needs or who are in circumstances that limit their academic, social or emotional development.

Foster grandparents serve children of all ages and backgrounds. Credit: Texas HHSC

Volunteers receive a monthly tax-free stipend and serve 15 to 40 hours a week. Unlike traditional foster parenting, children don’t live with their foster grandparents.

“Through the Foster Grandparent Program, students see improved outcomes while volunteers report finding a renewed sense of purpose,” said Emily Dressen, manager of the Foster Grandparent Program. “We hope to continue providing these benefits to mentors and students for many more years to come.”

Both grandparents and grandchildren benefit from the program. Credit: Texas HHSC

Volunteers share their time and talents with the children they mentor, building personal relationships through trust and support. Both groups benefit from the social interaction.

“As a senior, we have knowledge, life skills and wisdom to share with others,” said Modesto Perez, a Foster Grandparent Program volunteer in Abilene. “It’s a great feeling that I made a difference in a young person’s life.”

From July 2023 to June 2024, the Foster Grandparent Program served 21,687 children and logged 301,472 volunteer hours.

Learn more about volunteering at the Foster Grandparent Volunteer Program webpage, and see photos of volunteer foster grandparents here. Texans can visit hhs.texas.gov or dial 2-1-1 to learn about HHSC programs and services, or connect with HHSC on social media.