Hidden
There is an estimated 5.4 million of them in America alone. You see them every day, yet you do not know who they are or, really, that they even exist to any great degree.
These people are losing their youth, their chance to grow and excel, their chance to form relationships with their peers, and their path to the future is shrouded in the mists of uncertainty and missed opportunities.
They have no voice – at least, until recently.
We at foodtalk4you want to add to the conversation to try and increase awareness – not only of their struggle – but to edify the rest of America and the world that there’s work to be done to help these people.
Who are they that are sacrificing so much in the name of family love?
Children and youth who are primary caregivers for family members.
Whether it springs from multi-generational households extending normal familial love – to loved ones in need or single parent homes struck with adult disability or disease – legions of children and youth are caught up in a process robbing them of the precious years to be a kid.
Can you imagine the fatigue and weight of responsibility experienced as an adult caregiver being shouldered by a fifth or sixth grader trying to gain skills in basic reading, writing, and math concepts?
How about a sleep-deprived and emotionally distracted caregiving teen trying to grasp the basics of Earth Science or Algebra II?
Opportunities for playing outdoors, being in group sports, going to or having parties, being a part of after school activities and sports – all pass these children and youth by.
Opportunities that will never come again.
All because they can’t leave the side of their physically and/or psychologically challenged family members who need these angel caregivers for their survival.
You can click on this link for more information.
There you can scroll through to read short articles, links to features on the Today Show, and more.
The goal is to 1) create awareness, 2) create advocates for change, and 3) to be a part of that change.
You may be living next door to a child/youth caregiver and not know it. Could you help out?
Are you involved in education? Can you be a part of identifying these young caregivers and guiding them to the assistive resources available in your community?
Are you in medicine? Do you know who is the primary caregiver of your patients? Can you assist them in finding help?
As voters, we can ALL start conversations with our representatives to bring the plight of caregiving children and youth to the forefront of policy changes.
Sharing is caring. Use the options under the MORE button below to share this message for those who are able to help.
In health –
Deidre