Gwen, age 56 and divorced, presently cares for her granddaughter, Melissa, age 6. Her daughter, Ellen (adopted at birth) was unable to care for Melissa because of problems with depression and alcohol. Gwen knew that her daughter was having difficulties but it wasn't until Gwen was contacted by child welfare staff four years ago that she learned that Melissa might enter foster care. Gwen took her granddaughter into her home at this point.

Gwen has never pursued guardianship because she fears that Ellen would be upset to lose Melissa and it may set back her recovery. Gwen, a former postal worker, has been receiving social assistance for several years because of back problems. Her granddaughter has been added to Gwen's social assistance rate, providing her with an increase in payments of about $70.

Ellen visits irregularly but sometimes the visits are painful as she criticizes Gwen and ignores Melissa. Sometimes the visits work well, particularly since Ellen has started living with Gary, a man 20 years her senior who is concerned about Ellen and helps her keep on medications.

Gwen has two sons who live in other parts of the province. They are often angry about their sister's behaviour and worry about how Gwen is coping with parenthood again. Gwen's ex-husband's mother and father keep in touch with Gwen and Melissa, offering considerable support and friendship. They take Melissa on an annual holiday. Although Melissa's father has never been involved in her life, his sister lives near Gwen and visits regularly.