A Grandmother Raising a Child: A First-Person Account

My husband, John, and I did everything that we could to keep our granddaughter in our family when social services stepped in. There wasn’t any part of us that wanted her to go into foster care. Hannah belonged with us.

We would attend OCA foster parent training to keep her in our home. We were lucky enough to have Bryan and Stephanie Proctor as trainers. After the training, Stephanie kept in touch, and I am so glad that she did.

John passed away. The pandemic hit. I was working at a daycare that was closed. Within a three-month period, I lost my emotional, physical, and financial support. Stephanie sent an email at the beginning of the pandemic. I would reply to her message sharing the loss of John and the loss of my job.

Orphan Care Alliance Stepped In

Stephanie and OCA stepped in. OCA supported us with financial assistance while I waited for pandemic unemployment help. I received unbelievable support during a very difficult time. Hannah and I attended the OCA Connect group in Lexington. The leaders were wonderful. I love that it is Christian based. Hannah loved going and being spoiled by the childcare workers.

Now, things have turned around. I adopted Hannah, my finances have improved and I have been repairing my relationship with my daughter. I consider Stephanie, Bryan and everyone at OCA such a blessing. As I have been blessed, I contribute financially to OCA to bless someone else.

As Christians, it is very important to recognize the needs of children. Everybody knows a child in need or someone whose life has been negatively impacted by the last few years. Those who are blessed and have the ability to respond can do so either financially or with the gift of time. There are so many kids in need. OCA is there to bridge that gap – like an extended family.

OCA has allowed Hannah to be a kid. Will you help kids like her?

– Betty