WPTV Highlights Youth Caregivers and AACY’s Mission

Boca Raton, FL – December 11, 2024 – WPTV recently featured a story spotlighting the incredible work of the American Association of Caregiving Youth (AACY) in recognizing and supporting youth caregivers. The segment emphasized the challenges faced by over 5 million caregiving youth nationwide, including 290,000 in Florida, and highlighted AACY’s efforts to provide vital resources through its programs.

The story featured 17-year-old Ella Chisholm, a youth caregiver who helps care for her younger sister, who is legally blind and non-verbal. Ella shared, “I take her to school every day. I wake up early and make sure she gets to school on time. And I help her with daily things like feeding, getting dressed, and small stuff like that.”

Dr. Connie Siskowski, President of AACY, explained the profound responsibilities many caregiving youth take on, stating, “So they help with bathing, feeding, with giving medications, with helping them with mobility, with going to the bathroom, with household chores.”

Palm Beach County remains the only county in the United States with a direct services program specifically designed for caregiving youth, underscoring the pioneering work of AACY. The organization continues to advocate for increased awareness and support for caregiving youth across the nation.

To view the segment: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=665sodUwQwo.