Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

Because of the growing population of grandparents taking upon themselves the role of caretaker for their grandchildren, The Georgia Division of Family and Children Services can provide some support necessary so that children can be cared for in their homes or in the homes of relatives. DFCS will provide referrals to other DHR agencies as needed including Child Support, Health Department, Mental Health, and Aging Services.

A grandparent may qualify for additional financial assistance if they meet the following criteria:

· Is receiving TANF and

• Is a caretaker of his/her grandchild and
• Is 60 years of age and older or is any age and is disabled per Social Security Administration
• Is not participating in an existing foster care program and is not receiving per diem payments and
• Meets income guidelines
• Must be receiving TANF and not included in grant; therefore are not required to participate in the TANF work/training requirement

Two types of cash assistance are provided under this program:

• CRISP (Crisis Intervention Services Payment)

One time payment equal up to 3 times the maximum TANF benefit amount for the household size. Proof of the existence

of the emergency as it pertains to the child(ren) being in the home must be presented within a reasonable time period.

This payment is for emergency needs only!

• MSP (Monthly Subsidy Payment)

This is an ongoing payment of $50 per child per month

A grandparent may qualify for child care assistance if they meet the following criteria:

• Be age 60 or older OR under age 60 and receiving SSI or RSDI disability
• Reside with a grandchild under age 5
• Receive TANF child/payee only benefits for the grandchild(ren)
• Meet the income limits
• Have no other child care resources available such as Head Start or Pre-K

To Apply, Contact Your County Department of Family and Children Services.

Click below for DFCS contact information

Georgia DFCS Contact Information

No. in AU	Gross Income ceiling	Standard of Need	TANF Family Max.	TANF 160% FPL GRG
1	435	235	155	1308
2	659	356	235	1760
3	784	424	280	2215
4	925	500	330	2668
5	1060	573	378	3120
6	1149	621	410	3575
7	1243	672	444	4028
8	1319	713	470	4480
9	1389	751	496	4935
10	1487	804	530	5389
11	1591	860	568	5844