Smart Woman: Caring For Caregiving Kids

Caring for a sick, aging parent can be physically and emotionally draining. But imagine balancing those full-time duties with homework, classes and tests? There are more than one-point-three million child caregivers in the U.S. Many are too afraid or embarrassed to tell teachers or their peers.

These are the families Connie Siskowski had in mind when she founded the Caregiving Youth Project.

Connie said, "The government started with support. For family caregivers, they only looked at adults, and I think it was through ignorance."

Her program provides strength and support, one family at a time.

She says the first step is letting kids know they're not alone. The project offers in-home help and classes at school. It also makes teachers more aware of the student's situation.

Through camps and trips, these care-givers are given a chance to be care-free.

The project also provides families with practical resources ranging from home computers to clean water systems.

Eligible kids receive support from sixth grade until graduation. In Connie's Florida county, there are more than 10-thousand child caregivers.

Since 2006, the program has provided support to more than 550 kids in her area. The program is completely funded by grants and donations.

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