When Lena Smith and her husband found themselves unexpectedly raising their grandchildren, they quickly discovered just how challenging the journey can be, even with financial stability. That experience sparked something bigger: the creation of Grand Love, a nonprofit built to support grandparents and kinship caregivers raising a second generation.
“Even though we had resources, it was still overwhelming,” Lena Smith, founder of Grand Love, explains. “We looked around and saw other grandparents doing the same thing, but without the same financial means. We felt called to help.”
Since its founding, Grand Love has blossomed into a vibrant and compassionate network of support. What began as simple outreach has evolved into year-round programs, including emotional support groups, spiritual encouragement, holiday wish trees, school supply drives, scholarships and even access to arts enrichment, such as music lessons.
“We continue to listen to what our grandfamilies need,” Lena says. “That’s what drives everything forward.”
Two of their newest programs already are making a positive impact. Backpacks with Love is an annual event in July providing children with backpacks and school supplies, along with food trucks, snow cones, vendors and fun activities. Meanwhile, the Grand Love Wish Tree collects holiday wish lists from children and connects them with donors who help make their season magical.
And the momentum keeps growing. “We’ve also expanded our fundraising events,” Lena shares. “One of our biggest hits has been Bingo on Broadway, a lively monthly event that raises funds and awareness while bringing the community together in downtown Prosper.”
Another beloved tradition is the Breakfast with Santa, offering two seatings of a festive pancake buffet, photo ops, balloon artists and visits from characters like Elsa and Frosty. “It’s more than just fun,” Lena says. “It’s about giving back and reminding these families they’re seen, loved and supported.”
Grand Love’s mission remains focused on Texas for now, but its reach is growing. Partnerships with orthodontists, health care providers and legal professionals have expanded services for grandfamilies. Additionally, Lena recently joined state-level advocacy coalitions that are lobbying for increased support.
“There’s still so much to be done,” Lena says. “But every scholarship, every guitar lesson, every smile from a child — we see how big of a difference this work makes.”
Want to get involved? Volunteers are needed for events and to serve as Grandparent Encouragers. “Even one act of kindness can lift a family up,” Lena adds.
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Grand-Love.com
“Grandparents are saving the state billions by keeping children out of foster care — yet they’re often doing it with no support, no recognition and little relief,” shares Lena Smith, Founder of Grand Love.