Grandparents Face Financial Strain as They Take on Parenting Roles
A growing number of grandparents in the U.S. are stepping into parenting roles, often due to circumstances such as a child's death, drug use, or health issues. Vicki and Sal Parisella, a couple in their late 50s and 70s, are among the 1.1 million U.S. grandparents who have taken on the responsibility of raising their grandchildren. Living in Lakeland, Florida, they care for their two granddaughters, Myaliissa and Tatiana, after their daughter's relationship fell apart. Despite the challenges, including financial strain and the lack of legal parental rights, the Parisellas are committed to providing a stable home for their granddaughters. They face daily struggles, such as managing household expenses and dealing with legal complexities, as they strive to avoid the foster care system and ensure a promising future for the children. 
