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http://www.omniture.com --> Sections Home Page Local News AP News Blogs Archives Business Classifieds Event Calendar Forums Life Opinion Obituaries Multimedia Photo Gallery Readers Photo Gallery Sports Tempo Weather Road Cams Special Coverage 2006 Britt Festivals --> Shop Our Valley AutoFinder HomeFinder JobFinder Search Our Valley Special Sections Distinctly Northwest Readers' Choice Homelife Magazine Joy Magazine Oregon Golf Info Oregon Wine Info Other Publications Local Links Ashland News eSouthernOregon Newspapers In Education Personals Moving Here Movie Listings TV Listings Volunteer Customer Service Advertise With Us Media Kit Place Classified Ad Contact Us FAQ's Home Delivery Site Map --> Email Story to a Friend December 8, 2006 Raising 8 grandkids is daunting By SARAH LEMON Mail Tribune EDITOR'S NOTE: "Light One Candle" is an annual Mail Tribune series that focuses on the single need of an individual, family or agency during the holidays. Raising eight grandchildren was its own challenge before a 50-year-old Medford women had to quit her job in preparation for surgery. The family's financial future is uncertain, as the woman's 52-year-old husband is disabled and unable to work. The couple took charge of their grandchildren — a mix of siblings and cousins — when the kids' parents were put in jail. "These children are living with grandma and grandpa for at least a couple of years," said Carrie Hansen, development director for The Salvation Army Medford Citadel. Because of its size the family was not included in The Salvation Army's annual "Adopt-A-Family" campaign. Their needs go beyond what the Army can provide, Hansen said. Advertisement The family lacks household basics like a toaster, drinking glasses and flatware. The grandmother wishes for a living-room rug (12 by 14 feet), throw rugs for the bathroom, a vacuum cleaner and carpet steamer. The children could all use clothes, jackets and comforters for the six twin beds they share. The two 12-year-old granddaughters dream of hip-hop clothing, jewelry, lotion and compact disc players. The 6-year-old girl loves pink and wishes for a Barbie doll house and Bratz toys and accessories.All five boys, ages 5 through 9, are into sports and would love rollerblades and remote control cars. The two youngest — 5 and 6 — would like to share a bike. Donations can be delivered to The Salvation Army, 304 Beatty St., Medford. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. For more information, call Tammy De Jong at 773-6965. Reach reporter Sarah Lemon at 776-4487, or e-mail [email protected] . Would you like to respond to this story? If so Click Here to visit our forums. Advertisement Copyright © 1997-2007 Mail Tribune, Inc. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy | Terms & Conditions | Website Feedback online casinos news Home Security Systems Online Casino Reviews Trunks, Footlocker Fundraisers UK Homeowner Loans Casinos Canada Cord Blood Banking Discount Hotel Reservations Texas Electric Choice Compare Electric rates in Texas Windermere Van Vleet Men's Clothing Debt Help New Hampshire Primary