The Federal CSP provides services for older (age 55 and above) related primary caregivers of children age 18 or younger, living in the same household.  Priority must be given to those older related primary caregivers of children with severe disabilities.  Families that receive services through a waiver program are not eligible for this program.

Federal Grandparent/Older Adult Relative Caregiver Support Program Eligibility:

• Primary caregiver must be age 55 and above
• Caregiver must be "primary" caregiver
• Care receiver must be age 18 or younger.
• Primary caregiver and care receiver must be related (grandparent or older relative, but not the parent) and must reside in the same household
• Priority must be given to those older relative caregivers providing care to children with severe disabilities
• Priority must also be given to those older caregivers with greatest social and economic need, with particular attention to low-income individuals.

Effective with the October 2006 re-authorization of the Older Americans Act, Grandparents or relative caregivers, providing care for adult relatives with disabilities, who are between 19 and 59 years of age, can now be served under the Federal CSP. These caregivers must be age 55 years and older and cannot be the care receiver's parent. Priority shall be given to those older caregivers providing care for an adult with severe disabilities.

The Federal Grandparent/Older Adult Relative Caregiver Support Program adheres to the same benefit limits and cost sharing rules applicable to Federal CSP. Reimbursement benefits may include respite, consumable supplies and other services or supplies needed to maintain the caregiving relationship. The Lehigh County Office of Aging and Adult Services collaborates with the Lehigh County Office of Intellectual Disabilities, Via of the Lehigh Valley, and The ARC.

For additional information about the Grandparent/Older Adult Relative Caregiver Support Program, please contact the Lehigh County Office of Information and Referral Unit at (610) 782-3200, Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.