by Patricia A. Coldiron

Created on: February 24, 2010

“As of October 2007, more than six million children were living in households headed by grandparents (4.5 million children) or other relatives (1.5 million children),”according to the Association for the Advancement of Retired Persons (AARP).

 In Connecticut, you can receive help meeting those extra living expenses that you have now that the size of your household has increased.

 State requirements will vary, so check with the Social Services Department in your state, to see what assistance is available.

 School Breakfast/Lunch

 If you‘re a relative with custody of grandchildren, your grandchildren may be able to take advantage of the National School Lunch Program, which is a federally assisted meal program. Depending on family income, children can receive a nutritionally balanced school lunch free or at a reduced price. Income is the salary or wages you receive before deductions such as taxes, health insurance premiums, Social Security taxes, or contributions to charity. If you’re self-employed, eligibility will be based on your net income.

You’ll need to fill out an application with your personal information and sources of income, as well as income for anyone else living in the home. List the names, grades, and schools of children that you want to enroll in the program, and circle the appropriate box regarding food stamps. Once the application is completed, turn it in to the school office, and you should receive a phone call or letter regarding your children’s eligibility.

 Housing Assistance

 If you have custody of your grandchildren, you may qualify for an affordable rental apartment through the Hartford Grandfamily Housing Development. This development is divided into two sections, with one section for seniors, and one section for grandparents who are raising their grandchildren.

 Grandparents have access to parenting workshops, counseling, and case management regarding any social, health, or psychological needs.

 To be approved, grandparents must have legal custody of their grandchildren, meet low income requirements, and be a United States citizen, or eligible for citizenship. If you’re interested in receiving this housing assistance, contact the Broad-Park Development Corporation, that manages the property. Once your eligibility is established, you’ll be placed on a waiting list until an apartment that meets your needs becomes available.

 Energy Assistance

 If your family’s gross income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines, you may be eligible for energy assistance through the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP). This may include fuel deliveries, or having your utility bills paid. “If your utility bills are included in your rent, you may be eligible for one-time assistance,” according to CEAP.

 To apply for energy assistance, you need to make an appointment with CEAP and bring the following documentation: Social Security numbers for anyone in the household over 2 years of age, birth dates for all members of the household, your landlord’s name and address, and a copy of your utility bill. If you’re disabled, you need to bring proof of your disability. If your heating bills are included in your rent, bring a copy of your lease, and if you pay your own heating bills, bring a current rent receipt. Documentation of all household income for the previous four weeks before your application date must also be provided.

Learn more about this author, Patricia A. Coldiron.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.