Today’s Daily Journal ran a great AP story by Bruce Schreiner on the Census’ findings that more Kentucky grandparents are raising their grandchildren. The percent of children living in households headed by their grandparents jumped from 5.8 percent to 8.5 percent between 2000 and 2010. That dramatic kind of shift raises many potential policy implications. As Amy Swann, Policy Analyst for Kentucky Youth Advocates, says in the story, it is preferable to have grandparents or other relatives care for children whose parents are unable to do so rather than placing them in foster care or group homes. Research shows that  “a sustained connection to family and culture are important for child success.” Yet, existing programs that offer financial support for low-income  grandparents serving as caregivers for their grandchildren have not kept  pace with their burgeoning ranks. Policymakers and state leaders must ensure that grandparents and other relatives are getting the supports they need to help our children be successful.

Read the full story here.