Nicole Washington, case manager at MCH Family Outreach in
Houston, shared her experience in working with grandparents at a recent
convention in Stafford, Texas. The Children’s Case Management Coalition (CCMC)
hosted its 8th annual conference on February 24 at the Stafford
Centre.
Washington was invited to speak at the conference after
meeting several coalition members during an interagency meeting. The CCMC is “a
collaborative group of case management providers in Houston and surrounding
counties, who are invested in the special needs and issues of children and
their families.” Every year the coalition hosts a conference for the community
where social workers, nurses, nutritionists, parents and other professionals learn
more about issues and services available for families and children.
Washington presented to the group to provide insight on what
grandparents feel, think and struggle with when they are called to care for
their grandchildren.
“Over the past seven years I have worked with grandparents
in the Grandparents As Parents Program (GAPP) and one thing remains consistent –
they give all they have while caring for their grandchildren,” Washington said.
“They know it comes with a price, themselves, and they have no problem giving
their all. However, the entire family suffers when the price depletes the
one who holds it all together. I constantly remind my clients, ‘if you don’t
take care of yourself then you are not taking care of the kids. You are your
best advocate, so care and advocate for yourself.’”
Around 150 people attended the event to hear about topics
related to the conference theme “Trauma-Informed Care: Recognizing and
Responding to the Effects of Trauma in the Family.” Washington said the
experience of presenting to her peers was enlightening, and she enjoyed
speaking up for grandparents.
“I love my GAPP grandparents,” Washington said. “They truly
inspire me. I am so honored to work with them.”
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