An Evanston Grandmother has expressed concern that children would be the ultimate losers if the Grandparents for Grandchildren organisation had its funding stripped by the incoming Liberal Government.
Evanston grandmother, Lorraine Morton, who cared for her grandson, recently contacted her local Member of Parliament Tony Piccolo, concerned that the not-for-profit organisation would have its annual funding cut by the new State Liberal Government.
Mr Piccolo was told how valuable Grandparents for Grandchildren’s support services had been for Ms Morton in raising her grandson.
“I have had to deal with organisations such as Family Court, Centrelink to resolve custody, family allowance issues etc. which has not been easy,” Ms Morton explained.
“I am very appreciative of the help, advice and support I have received from Grandparents for Grandchildren in dealing with these matters, as well as providing Christmas hampers and entertainment.”
Ms Morton was concerned by recent reports that the new State Liberal Government had plans to discontinue the organisation’s funding after 30 June.
Mr Piccolo explained that the threat to the valuable advocacy service was real and was only averted because of the strong parliamentary pressure applied by his Labor colleague, Jane Stinson – Shadow Minister for Child Protection.
“Having been raised by her own grandparents, Jane was determined to see the funding for Grandparents for Grandchildren continued,” Mr Piccolo said.
“The organisation has proven its worth in supporting around 12,000 children to stay with family members when state care may be the only other viable alternative.
“Grandparents for Grandchildren has also delivered its valuable advocacy services at minimal cost to the taxpayer – with annual State Government funding amounting to approximately $120,000.”
Despite the valuable cost-effective services provided, the State Liberal Government only announced a continuation of Grandparents for Grandchildren’s annual funding after sustained parliamentary pressure, on 29 May.