On April 29, 2025, Louisiana lawmakers introduced Senate Concurrent Resolution 17 (SCR 17), a legislative measure aimed at bolstering support for grandfamilies—households where grandparents are the primary caregivers for their grandchildren. This resolution highlights the critical role of Grandparents Raising Grandchildren (GRG), a volunteer-led organization that provides essential services such as emergency assistance, legal consultation, and educational workshops to these families.

The bill underscores the pressing need for support, noting that over 30% of grandfamilies in Louisiana live at or below the poverty line, with more than 75% falling below the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) threshold. With approximately 117,859 children living in grandparent-headed households in Louisiana, and nearly 65,000 of those children without either parent present, the resolution addresses a significant social issue. The survey conducted among 200 grandparents raising 433 children reveals a narrative of resilience and sacrifice, emphasizing the importance of these families in preventing children from entering the foster care system.

SCR 17 proposes twenty action steps aimed at strengthening the support system for grandfamilies, advocating for legislative and community action to honor their contributions and ensure dignity, opportunity, and security for both grandparents and the children in their care. The resolution also highlights the emotional and academic benefits of kinship care, noting that children in these arrangements typically fare better than those placed in non-relative foster care.

While the resolution has garnered support for its compassionate approach to a growing demographic, it may face challenges in securing funding and resources necessary to implement the proposed action steps. Experts in child welfare and social services have expressed optimism about the potential impact of SCR 17, suggesting that it could lead to significant improvements in the lives of grandfamilies across the state.

As Louisiana continues to grapple with the complexities of family dynamics and child welfare, SCR 17 represents a proactive step towards addressing the needs of grandfamilies, ensuring that they receive the support and recognition they deserve. The resolution's future will depend on legislative discussions and the commitment of state resources to turn its proposals into actionable support for these vital family units.