Most people don’t think of children as caregivers — but in homes across the country, they are.

There are kids who help feed a disabled sibling before school. Teens who manage medication schedules or help bathe a sick parent. Children who shoulder adult responsibilities—often quietly and without recognition—because there’s no one else.

These underage caregivers are doing heroic work. But they can’t do it alone.

A recent CBS News report revealed that the National Family Caregiver Support Program, one of the few federal programs that could help them, is at risk.

Funded through the Older Americans Act, the program offers states funding to support unpaid caregivers—including children under 18.

In May, the U.S. Government Accountability Office reminded states they can use these grants to help young caregivers. But the future of the program is now unclear:

The Older Americans Act is still waiting on reauthorization.
The Administration for Community Living, which oversees the grants, had its staffing cut nearly in half in April under President Trump’s HHS reorganization.

Without action, this support could disappear.
 
As a parent, I’m asking Congress to protect the National Family Caregiver Support Program — and ensure states use it to help the young caregivers who need it most.

No child should have to carry the burden of caregiving alone. They need support, guidance, and recognition—not budget cuts and political delays.

Kids who care for others deserve care, too.