Independent Living Success Stories

A Grandmother’s Struggle to Raise Her Grandchildren

As any mother knows, raising four children is a big job – and an expensive one. Raising four small children when you are single, elderly and blind is even harder.

It was a hot June morning when Jane Roberts, aged 62, came to The Salvation Army in desperation. Besides being blind, Roberts recently received full custody of her grandchildren due to the mother’s neglect.

“Their mother is on drugs, and I have custody of the children, but I don’t have enough food to feed four children,” she said. “These kids are hungry all the time. They were never fed properly with their mother.”

Roberts, her hands full with children ages 3, 4, 9 and 10, was trying to make ends meet with a Social Security Disability check of just $623 each month and a small stipend from the Department of Human Services. Roberts said she was struggling to choose between paying her bills and feeding her grandchildren. Unfortunately, her utility bills were mounting as a result.

“These are our typical clients,” said Toni Sanders, director of Social Services for The Salvation Army. “Most are working or living on social security, and sometimes, they just need a hand up.”

With her resources exhausted and her friends and family unable to help any more than they already had, Roberts’ last chance was The Salvation Army.

“We paid to avoid the disconnect on her gas bill under our Share the Warmth program,” said Sanders. “We also gave Ms. Roberts ample food, including fresh and canned meat, produce, dry food items, canned goods, frozen items and simple hygiene items.”

In addition, The Salvation Army was also able to connect Roberts with other United Way Partner Agencies to fully meet her needs. She is grateful to be able to give her grandchildren a healthier home with support from local resources.