The Foster Grandparent (FG) Program is one of the three programs of the federally funded National Senior Service Corps. The Foster Grandparent Program offers seniors age 60 and older opportunities to serve as mentors, tutors, and caregivers for children and youth with exceptional needs. Foster Grandparents volunteer in schools, hospitals, drug treatment facilities, correctional institutions, Head Start and other day care centers. There are 24,000 Foster Grandparents nationwide with over 600 serving in Minnesota.

A Foster Grandparent serves from 15 to 40 hours per week and receives a small tax-free stipend for the service provided. (The stipend does not affect any of the benefits they may be receiving) They also receive a meal on the days they volunteer and travel allowance.

Catholic Charities, Lutheran Social Service and Tri-Valley Opportunity Council receive grants to administer the Foster Grandparent Program in Minnesota. They contract with over 100 agencies who match Foster Grandparent volunteers with special needs youth.

Would you or someone you know be interested in serving in a school or shelter as a caring grandparent to a disadvantaged child?

While all Foster Grandparent volunteers receive the benefit of helping others, they also receive a meal allowance and financial benefits including a monthly stipend, accident insurance, and sick pay.

Fill out our information request form to find out how to become a Foster Grandparent.