The Area Office on Aging of Northwestern Ohio (AOoA), continues to stand as a vital lifeline for grandparents and relatives raising children, offering a comprehensive network of support through its Kinship Navigator Program. Located at 2155 Arlington Ave., the program provides guidance, connection and ongoing care for grandfamilies- an often overlooked population carrying
immense responsibility and equally immense impact.
Grandparent head of households
Across Ohio, 238,921 children live in homes headed by grandparents or other relatives. That’s 9.3 percent of all children in the state, a number that reflects the growing need for stable, loving homes outside of traditional parental care.
These caregivers often step in during crises- substance use disorders, incarceration, mental health challenges or other emergencies- and provide a safety net that keeps children out of the foster care system. In fact, their dedication saves taxpayers an estimated $4 billion each year. Nearly half have been providing care for five years or longer, underscoring the long-term nature of their commitment.
The Kinship Navigator Program exists to ensure that these families don’t shoulder this responsibility alone. Built around advocacy, education and practical assistance, the program links caregivers to community services designed to support both them and the children in their care. Its mission is clear: to guide grandparents and relatives to the resources they need through information, ongoing support, education and coordinated referrals.
List of resources
AOoA offers a robust list of services tailored to the unique needs of grandfamilies. These include information and referral, ongoing assistance, monthly well-checks and support groups that foster community connection.
Educational offerings range from evidence-based workshops and the Wellness Initiative for Senior Education (WISE) to programs addressing child traumatic stress and practical parenting resources, such as the Parenting Smarts Guide.
Families also benefit from bi-weekly e-blasts, quarterly newsletters and seasonal programming like the Summer Series. During the holidays, the program provides meal assistance to ensure families feel supported year-round.
The Kinship Navigator Program is made possible through the collaboration of the Area Office on Aging, Lucas County Children Services and the Lucas County Department of Job and Family Services, forming a unified system of support for caregivers who step up when children need them most.
For more information, families can call 419-382-0624 or visit the AOoA website at areaofficeonaging.com.
