Pocahontas County FRN Held Open House for their “Granfamilies” Program

The Pocahontas County Family Resource Network held an introductory Open House for their “Grandfamilies” Program on July 23^rd at the McClintic Library in Marlinton. The FRN is the local coordinating agency for the Healthy Granfamilies Coalition Office of the West Virginia State University (WVSU) Department of Social Work and the WVSU Extension Service.

Becky Campbell of the FRN introduced the program to the grandparents who are raising their grandchildren that attended the open house. It was explained that the purpose of the Granfamilies program is provide support for the many grandparents in Pocahontas County who for one reason or another, are raising their grandchildren. This support not only includes basic family supplies and financial support if needed, but the group will also provide stress management and an opportunity for the members to get together and discuss issues and support each other.

There were presentations from other organizations which provide support to these families also.

Kayla Lester made a presentation about the services that the school-based Community Care Health Centers provide to students, including helping parents get their kids immunizations and primary care right in the school, as well as weight management services, and acute care.

There was a presentation by WV Department of Human Services about programs like WV WORKS which can provide financial assistance with car repairs, insurance payments, and child care expenses to grandparents who are raising dependent children.

Peggy Stull of Youth Health Services talked about the emotional help and counseling that organization provides in the schools.

Lois Wilfong of the Pocahontas County Schools’ Community in Schools Program described the presentations they offer to students, such as math and reading tutoring, anti-bullying programing, mentoring groups, backpack meals, risky behavior initiatives and smoking cessation programs.

After these presentations, the group decided to hold monthly support meetings. This was followed by a light lunch.

Pocahontas County Grandparents who are raising their grandchildren are encouraged to join the FRN’s Granfamilies Program to receive support with that stressful responsibility. You can get more information by contacting the Pocahontas County FRN at their new office, 614 2^nd Ave. in Marlinton or calling them at 304-799-6847.