A Lifeline When You Feel Like You're Drowning
December 5, 2025
When families face tough moments, it is often the quiet heroes who step forward. Our partner charity, Grandparents Raising Grandchildren, is there to steady the ground under their feet and help them keep going.
At 65, Alison had just retired and was looking forward to a well-earned chapter of rest, travel, and freedom. But life had other plans. When her 6-month-old granddaughter needed a safe and loving home, Alison didn’t hesitate and stepped in without question, becoming her full-time caregiver.
As the years passed and her granddaughter grew, Alison faced mounting financial pressure. Her pension barely covered the essentials, and the cost of raising a child stretched her resources thin. Despite her love and commitment, the weight of responsibility began to take its toll.
When it all started to feel too much, she decided to seek help. A quick google search bought up our partner charity, Grandparents Raising Grandchildren (GRG). She reached out to the helpline and was immediately connected with a local support coordinator, a financial advocate, and – perhaps most importantly – others walking the same path.
“I really felt like I was drowning before I went to that first support meeting. I thought I was the only one trying to make it all work.”
At her first support group, Alison met 10 other grandparents and whānau caregivers. They shared stories, offered advice, and listened with empathy. It was a turning point.
“It was like the world lifted off my shoulders at that meeting.”
With GRG’s help, Alison accessed the financial support she was entitled to, easing the burden and allowing her to provide for her granddaughter without constant worry. GRG even helped source a bicycle, so she no longer had to walk 5km to school each day.
“Without GRG I don’t know where we would be. I am so grateful for all your support.”
Alison’s story is one of thousands. GRG supports over 6,900 whānau caregivers across Aotearoa, providing advocacy, connection, and practical assistance to those who step up when children need them most.
When you support GRG, you not only supporting children to grow up in loving and safe homes – you're bringing connection and support to grandparents and whānau caregivers in some of the most crucial moments. Thank you for being there for our whānau.
Words supplied by Grandparents Raising Grandchildren.
Support Grandparents Raising Grandchildren with your 1%
Help to provide positive outcomes in the lives of grandparents and grandchildren with just 1% of your annual income. For the average Kiwi, that's only $10 per week. Support Grandparents Raising Grandchildren with your 1%.
