Grandparents and other relatives who find themselves thrust into parenthood often need emotional and moral support, as well as practical referral to services.

But where can they turn for help?

Encompass, the North Bend-based children’s and family-services organization, is responding to the need. Encompass will start a monthly Kinship Care Support session to be held the first Monday evening of the month at the Together Center, 16225 NE 87th, Suite A-5, in Redmond. The first session will run from 5:30-7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 3, 2011.

“By participating in Kinship Care Support, you can come to know that others are in the same situation as you – and, as a result, the children in your care can come to the same realization.” said Kerry Beymer, Encompass Family Support manager. “We can help you go from overwhelmed to well equipped.”

Kinship Care Support services include assistance with accessing counseling, parenting classes, health care, legal assistance and basic needs, along with advocacy with federal and state agencies. It also provides a safe place for grandparents and other relatives to share concerns, joys and resources associated with the unique responsibility of raising children.

Free childcare will be provided at the Monday sessions, along with a free meal for both children and adults.

For more information and to reserve a spot, contact Kerry Beymer at Encompass at (425)-888-2777 or kerry.beymer@encompassnw.org.