Foster grandparents play a vital role in school districts in Broome County. Many schools have Foster Grandparent volunteers who bring gifts of friendship and caring. Teachers who have worked with a foster grandparent tell us they are invaluable. Foster grandparents are an extra set of eyes and ears, someone who can work one-on-one with children to help them succeed. Foster grandparents play with the children, read with them, help reinforce lessons taught by the teacher, and offer encouragement and praise. The foster grandparent can play a vital role in the well-being of a child both socially and academically.

Who are Foster Grandparents?

Foster Grandparents are classroom grandmas and grandpas. They volunteer 20 hours per week at schools, daycare centers and Head Start Programs throughout Broome County. Foster Grandparents work directly with children: listening, reading stories and helping with academic work. They give the extra one-on-one attention, love and encouragement that children need.  Palmer Elementary School has one Foster Grandparent volunteer this year.

The Foster Grandparent Program is recruiting more classroom Foster Grandparent volunteers. Volunteers must be 55 or over and within income guidelines. Foster Grandparents receive a tax free stipend that will not affect eligibility for other government programs. They also receive travel reimbursement and a free meal at their volunteer site. If you would like to volunteer as a Foster Grandparent please call 778-2089.