Grandparents disappointed P.E.I.'s new caregiver funding doesn't apply to them

A grandparents advocacy groupis urging the P.E.I. government to open up the province's new caregiver program to accommodate all grandparents raising grandchildren, not just those with an open child protection case.

Don Avery, co-founder of the Charlottetown-based Grandparents Raising Grandchildren, says he's been overwhelmed by calls from upset caregiverswho thought they would qualify but don't because their grandchild isn't involved in a child protection case.

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"I feel disappointed in the fact that whenthey all initially heard the outcome ... it was their perception that they were going to get $700 a month," he said.

I think if we continue fighting for what they say they're going to give, Ifeel pretty confident. Don Avery

Currently, funding through the province's new Grandparents and Care Providers program is only provided to caregiverslooking after a child involved in anopen child protection case, according to Family and Human Services Tina Mundy.

Phase one of theprogram beganDec. 1 and provides households with $700 per month per child, as well as dental and drug coverage for the children. Phase two begins April 1.

Grandparents disappointed

Avery said there are 28 people in his group and he believes only one will qualify for the new funding.

Although, he believes any family member who is helping raise a child should get some support and saidthe group is going to push government to open up eligibility to all grandparent caregivers.

"I think if we continue fighting for what they say they're going to give, Ifeel pretty confident," he added.

"That doesn't quell the descension or disappointment with the grandparents today."

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