The Foster Grandparent Program allows grandparents to volunteer and help kids in schools. It is catered to anyone who wants to become a role model, mentor or friend.
Patricia Larry, who volunteers at Alderson Elementary School, is a foster grandmother.
“My compassion is to help children grow,” Larry said.
To students at Alderson Elementary, Larry said she is known as Mema. Each and every child, she considers a grand-baby.
“When you see your grandparent, your grandparent are grand to you, and your grandchildren are grand to you, so that’s the relationship we have is grand,” Larry said.
Yvonne Kenny, another foster grandparent, said she teaches kids life lessons and helps them whenever they need something.
“I look forward to getting up every morning coming in and being with my children,” Kenny said. “I work with kindergartners and they’re just my sunshine.”
Larry and Kenny are both apart of this nationwide program that brings senior citizens into the classroom.
According to the program’s website, a person has to be 55-years-old or older to become a foster grandparent.The foster grandparent program is at schools, daycares and early learning programs.The volunteers help children with things like reading, math and science.
“I’m in the science room, so I’m constantly learning just like they’re learning,” Larry said.
Principal of Alderson Elementary, Cicely Alexander, said the program has had a profound impact on her students.
“They intentionally encourage and support our students to let them know, don’t give up, you can pass this test,” Alexander said.
The “grandparents” even continue their role after the bell rings, Larry said.
“I don’t only see them at school, I see them at the store, at the library,” Larry said.
It’s not just beneficial for the children, Larry said the connection she is making with the children is priceless.
“They recognize me and there’s my hug, there’s my smile, there’s my joy for today,” Larry said.
Foster grandparents receive a small stipend. In Lubbock, the program directors say they’re trying to add foster grandparents to middle schools and high schools as well.