LANL FOUNDATION NEWS RELEASE

The LANL Foundation invites you to join us at the New Mexico Legislature on Friday, March 14, at 9 a.m. for Grandparents and Kin Raising Children Day—a celebration of the resilience and love that grandparents and kinship caregivers bring to raising children.

Did you know? New Mexico has the highest percentage of grandparents and kin raising children in the nation. Between 2021 and 2023, 8% of children in New Mexico were in kinship care—more than double the national average of 3%. Additionally, from 2017 to 2023, the number of children in kinship care in New Mexico grew from an estimated 30,000 to 36,000, while nationally, these numbers declined slightly.

This special event will also raise awareness about the needs of children in our state and feature:

A powerful photo exhibit by award-winning photographer Jane Bernard giving a glimpse into the everyday lives of these families

A panel discussion with grandparents, children, Legislators and community organizations sharing their experiences.

Resource booths for families and advocates to connect with valuable support networks.

We hope you’ll join us in honoring and supporting New Mexico’s kinship caregivers. Mark your calendar and stay tuned for more details! If you have any questions please contact Jessica Acosta, LANL Foundation Ed. Coordinator at jessica@lanlfoundation.org