Kin Family Spotlight: A Journey of Love and Resilience
At Vermont Kin as Parents (VKAP), we are continually inspired by the stories of kinship caregivers—everyday heroes who step up with open hearts and unwavering commitment. Today, we are honored to spotlight one such incredible family.
Meet a Kinship Family from Chittenden County
For most of her life, 11-year-old Alina has been lovingly cared for by her great grandparents, Lynn and Bob, who became her legal guardians in 2020. Their journey began when both of Alina’s parents were incarcerated, and she was living with her maternal grandmother. When her grandmother faced challenges finding childcare while working full-time, this caring couple—already retired—stepped in with compassion and determination.
“We talked it over,” Lynn shared, “and decided to speak with her parents to see if they would agree to let us care for Alina.” With her living in New York at the time, they had to navigate court proceedings in another state, eventually gaining guardianship after three hearings.
The Joys and Challenges of Kinship Care
One of the greatest rewards of their journey has been watching Alina flourish. “Whether in dance, gymnastics, playing violin, or making friends—she puts her all into it,” Lynn beams. “She amazes me with her caring heart and how she encourages other kids in similar situations, reminding them they're not alone.”
Of course, the path hasn't been without challenges. From coordinating medical and educational services to managing energy levels as older caregivers, the family has had to adapt in many ways. Support from VKAP was a turning point: “A friend kept urging me to call VKAP. When I finally spoke to Linda Deladuka, everything started to turn around.”
VKAP’s Tuesday night support group became a lifeline. “Connecting with other kin caregivers—people who truly understand—has meant the world to me,” she shared. “We’ve become close friends, and I cherish their friendship deeply.”
A Glimpse Into Their Daily Life
Weekdays begin bright and early, with Bob preparing Alina’s breakfast and driving her to the bus stop. On Violin days start with a trip to Dunkin Donuts before school. Evenings are filled with reading, dinner, and bedtime routines. Weekends bring sleepovers, baking– Alina and Lynn really like to bake together–an occasional trip to Asian Bistro, so Alina can have Miso soup, shrimp fried rice and Salmon avocado sushi, and long chats with her dad and stepmom, who call nearly every night.
Special memories include a magical trip to Disney for her fifth birthday, and another two cruises for her eighth and eleventh birthdays. “Her dance recitals always make us smile,” her caregiver recalls. “She was so proud on stage, and she sings so loudly in the shower we can hear her downstairs—it always makes us laugh.”
Finding Balance and Joy
Even as full-time caregivers, they make time for self-care. From visits to the nail salon and lunch dates with friends to weekend trips to camp, they prioritize their well-being. “It helps us be better caregivers for Alina,” they explain. Living in Vermont, surrounded by loved ones, adds a special sense of peace and connection.
Looking Ahead With Hope
The family's deepest hope has always been for Alina to reunite with a parent. That dream will soon come true—Alina is preparing to move to New Jersey to live with her dad, stepmom, and baby brother. Though it will be bittersweet, her caregivers are proud of the foundation they helped build.
Words of Wisdom
When asked what advice they'd give to new kin caregivers, the response is simple but powerful:
“Surround yourself with other kin families. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. And let your children spend time with others in similar situations—it helps them know they’re not alone.”
A Family Theme Song
If this family had a theme song, it would be “We Are Family.” And truly, there is no better way to sum up the heart of their story—one of love, laughter, and strength in togetherness.
*Jeana Lavallee, Wearer of many hats, Kin Mom, Edie's Gigi, Autism mom*
