The housing needs of seniors have changed. The senior population is predicted to double by the year 2030. Furthermore, today's seniors are not only living longer and retiring later; their roles as grandparents are also being fundamentally redefined.

In Chicago, more than 41,000 grandparents 60 years or older are responsible for grandchildren under the age of 18. These "grand families," according to a 1997 survey, included a significant number of low income households. Of the 335 grand families surveyed, more than 51% had incomes of $25,000 per year or less. 

In 2006, 85.3% of grandparents in Bronzeville lived with grandchildren under the age of 18. In Chicago as a whole, the figure was 76.8%. Grand families account for 7.8% of family households in Bronzeville, compared to the citywide statistic of 5.2%.  

Click here for a report by the University of Illinois about issues facing grandparents raising grandchildren in Bronzeville

Click here for a power point by the University of Illinois about issues facing grandparents raising grandchildren in Bronzeville

Changes in housing needs and family dynamics demand a different approach to meet the critical need for affordable housing. The Renaissance Collaborative recognizes this need and has dedicated a Senior Village to meet the diverse needs of the Bronzeville and surrounding areas' senior population.

Resource Guide for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren