Pemberton Park for GrandFamilies
Pemberton Park for Grandfamilies is the first development in Kansas City designed specifically to serve grandparents raising their grandchildren. Open since 2011, the project was developed in partnership with Cougar Capital and the location, design, and services were refined in grandparent focus groups sponsored by the Family Friends program of Children’s Mercy Hospital.
Pemberton Park includes 36 spacious two, three and four-bedroom apartments, with units that are fully accessible or adaptable for those with disabilities. Apartments are fully equipped with all appliances, including a full-size washer and dryer. The site features a playground, large community room, grandparents lounge, computer learning center, craft room, and social work office. Staff includes a Service Coordinator who organizes programs and activities for grandparents and grandchildren throughout the year.
According the 2000 Census, approximately 9,500 families in Jackson County are headed by grandparents. Approximately 45% of those families live below the poverty level. The 2010 Census indicated that the number of grandfamilies is growing nationally. These families face many unique challenges. Pemberton Park addresses these needs by providing supportive services on-site for grandfamilies in a location near to transportation, shops and health care.
Pemberton Park - A Housing Model That Works