LANSING - Senior citizens who have extra time and attention to give are helping the community one child at a time.

The Foster Grandparent Program is a part of the Retired and Senior Volunteer Programs of Ingham, Eaton, and Clinton Counties.

The program gives senior citizens, ages 55 and over, a chance to provide mentorship and tutoring to children up to the age of 21 in local schools, pre-schools, head start classrooms, and after school programs.

"Wherever there are students or children that need love, attention, and that extra help in basic tutoring or mentoring, we try to place a foster grandparent there," said Diana Hrit, Director of the Foster Grandparent Program.

Volunteers usually serve throughout the entire year and income eligible volunteers who serve a minimum of 15 hours a week can receive a non-taxable stipend, as well as meal and travel reimbursement.

Cecil Hampton has been a volunteer with the program for five years at The People's Church and counts it as a rewarding experience on both ends.

"Having somebody once a day around them and they look forward to it, they have something to talk about when they go home," said Hampton. "That's the enjoyment I get out of them."

In addition to playing games, reading, and mentoring, volunteers with the Foster Grandparents Program also accompany kids on field trips to places such as local parks, fishing, and to the city zoo.

To become a foster grandparent, senior citizens are encouraged to either call or stop by the FGP office located inside of the old Elmhurst Elementary School building in Lansing and express their interest.