Pemberton Park for Grandfamilies addresses a pressing and multifaceted problem faced by a vulnerable community: elderly grandparents raising their grandchildren under difficult circumstances. This program offers a unique housing environment designed specifically to meet the needs of both aging adults and the young people in their care, creating a supportive and stable community where families can thrive despite the challenges they face.

Housing Challenges For Grandfamilies

One of the key issues confronting residents of Pemberton Park is housing. Many elderly residents live on fixed incomes in public housing, raising grandchildren who have experienced severe trauma. Traditional housing options present significant barriers: the Housing Authority of Kansas City’s (HAKC) senior housing developments do not permit children to live in these units, while family low-income public housing developments often fail to support elderly residents aging in place.

Pemberton Park stands out by offering an environment that accommodates both the elderly-disabled population and their grandchildren. Its innovative design and philosophy enable grandparents to age comfortably while providing a safe space where younger generations can grow and succeed. This dual-purpose housing model is essential for supporting the unique dynamics of grandfamilies.

The Dual Trauma Of Grandfamilies

Grandfamilies face two distinct but deeply interconnected layers of trauma. On one side are the grandparents, who are navigating the stresses of aging such as declining mobility, social isolation, and financial constraints typical of living on a fixed income. For many, parenting was expected to be a chapter behind them, but now they must assume full-time caregiving responsibilities once again. This sudden role reversal can lead to feelings of loneliness, stigma, and emotional strain, as they care for children in a world that has changed dramatically since their own parenting years.

On the other side are the grandchildren, each of whom has experienced significant upheaval due to absent birth parents. Causes for this absence include drug and alcohol abuse, incarceration, or abandonment. These children carry the weight of trauma that, if left unaddressed, can severely impact their future success. Compounding their challenges, many grandchildren struggle to relate to their grandparents, who may not fully understand the contemporary social environment these youth face. As a result, some children become vulnerable to negative influences such as gangs, bullying, and substance abuse.

Additionally, grandchildren often face social stigma for being raised by their grandparents. They report being teased or questioned with hurtful remarks like, “Why do you live with your grandparents?” This stigma can further isolate them and hinder their development.

The Urgent Need For Intervention

Research consistently shows that without timely and effective support, these intertwined challenges can lead to devastating outcomes. Unaddressed trauma and instability increase the risk of youth becoming entangled with law enforcement and the criminal justice system. Meanwhile, aging grandparents may face poverty and declining health without adequate support, and children may grow up in environments where hope and opportunity seem out of reach.

Recognizing this, Pemberton Park for Grandfamilies has prioritized providing a stable, supportive home environment as the foundation for healing and growth. Stability in housing is crucial—especially for families living in poverty—as it offers children and grandparents alike a sense of security and continuity.

Trauma-Informed Support

Central to the success of Pemberton Park’s approach is the work of a dedicated Case Manager who removes barriers and helps families access critical assistance. Using Trauma-Informed Care principles, the Case Manager approaches each family’s situation with sensitivity and understanding.

For grandparents facing the daunting task of managing rent or utility arrears, the Case Manager transforms what could be a stressful and humiliating process into a straightforward, supportive experience. This ensures that housing remains secure and stable.

For grandchildren, the Case Manager serves as a consistent, caring presence—often the friendly face waiting when they get off the bus. This trusted adult helps children navigate challenges at school or at home, providing guidance and support that encourages positive development and reduces the risk of dropping out or falling into harmful behaviors.

Positive Outcomes: Stability, Success & Safety

The lasting impact of Pemberton Park for Grandfamilies is seen in the positive trajectory of the children and their caregivers. By providing a stable home and supportive environment, the program helps prevent youth from turning to gangs, violence, or substance abuse. Instead, children are more likely to stay in school, graduate, and grow into healthy, productive adults.

For grandparents, the program alleviates some of the overwhelming pressures of raising grandchildren in later life, reducing isolation and improving quality of life.

Building A Brighter Future For Grandfamilies

Pemberton Park for Grandfamilies stands as a vital example of how thoughtful, compassionate housing solutions paired with trauma-informed support can transform lives. By addressing the unique needs of both older caregivers and their grandchildren, the program fosters a nurturing environment that breaks cycles of trauma and poverty.

Through continued support and investment, Pemberton Park aims to ensure that more grandfamilies have access to the stability, resources, and hope they need to build strong, thriving futures together.

Locations

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