266K Texas grandparents raise grandkids—UnitedHealthcare shares key support resources

September is National Grandparents Month, a time to celebrate all they do. In many Texas families, support extends across generations. Grandparents share traditions, offer guidance and help raise happy, healthy kids. Whether they are helping with homework, attending school events or providing day-to-day care, grandparents often play an important role in helping families thrive.

More than 266,000 grandparents in Texas are responsible for their grandchildren and nearly 900,000 children live in relative-headed households, based on data from GrandFamilies.org.

Texas is a reflection of the national picture. Research from Generations United shows that nearly 8 million children in the U.S. live in households headed by grandparents or other relatives. In roughly 1 in 3 of these households, neither of the children’s parents lives in the home and 35% of children in foster care are being raised by a relative.

These children and caregivers may experience greater health, social and financial challenges than those in other families, from accessing healthy food to regular care. As families balance those needs, having reliable information about available resources can make a difference.

Access to nutritious food is one important part of maintaining health and well-being. The AARP Public Policy Institute found that about 1 in 10 adults aged 50 and older faced food insecurity in 2024, representing about 12.7 million people. Nationally, nearly 14% of U.S. households were food insecure in 2024, according to the USDA Economic Research Service.

The need is especially significant in Texas. Feeding America estimates that nearly 18% of households in the state are food insecure, among the highest rates in the country, with Harris County at that same level, based on findings from Map the Meal Gap.

Where can families find support?

Support may already be available through programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), local food banks, aging services and community organizations. Eligibility and benefits vary, so families should confirm details directly with the program or provider.

For people with Medicare and Medicaid, a Dual Special Needs plan (D-SNP) may help coordinate care and make it easier to navigate care options. Many D-SNPs may help members find in-network providers, track appointments and stay current on covered preventive care, such as annual wellness visits and certain screenings. Plans can also help connect people to support services for needs like housing, caregiver support and more.

Even though many people may qualify for a D-SNP, enrollment remains lower than expected because some individuals may not realize these plans exist or understand the benefits they may receive. Depending on the plan and eligibility, benefits may include help with everyday needs like food and utilities, over-the-counter products, dental, vision and hearing benefits, and transportation assistance to care appointments.

UnitedHealthcare is sharing family friendly resources like the Grandfamilies Guide to Good Health, which encourages healthy habits, including oral health, preventive care and staying active, along with tips for making healthy meal choices and saving on grocery costs.

Visit CelebrateGrandparents.com to learn more about D-SNPs and find resources and support for healthy living for the whole family.

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The above story was produced by Patricia Longoria, VP, Strategic Accounts and Community Advocacy, UnitedHealthcare with Community Impact's Storytelling team, using information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.