Woman caring for 4 grandchildren struggles after job loss, turns to Goodfellows

Bernadette had custody of three of her grandchildren for eight years. Then, in July, she got custody of a fourth.

While she loves each dearly, caring for them is a challenge. It was made even moreso when she lost her job in September due to COVID-19. That’s when the day-to-day stress of finances really set in, she said.

“We struggle to pay our rent, not to mention being able to pay the utilities, and the children can’t complete homework assignments due to not having internet,” she said. “The one thing I promised these babies was that they didn’t have to worry about stability and a place to lay their head at night, or where they would get their next meal from.”

Goodfellows can help make the holidays better for Bernadette and her family. The Star-Telegram charity has been helping families like hers during the holidays for more than a century. This year they are providing $50 gift cards to help buy shoes and clothing for children.

“The last thing I want these babies to think is there won’t be Christmas this year,” she said.

Be a Goodfellow

Since 1912, the Star-Telegram’s Goodfellow Fund has provided help and assistance for Tarrant County schoolchildren. This season they have a goal of assisting 12,000 youths. Join this tradition by sending a contribution to Goodfellows, Box 1870, Fort Worth, TX 76101, or visit goodfellowfundfw.com to make a secure credit card donation.