Santosha is not only a Savvy Auntie, she’s also a ParAunt, meaning she’s a primary caregiver for her nieces and nephews. Here is some of her amazing story.

It must be such a challenge taking care of seven nieces and nephews plus two of your own–how do you handle it all?
It is a big responsibility that my mom and I are taking on, so we work hard everyday to keep our heads above water. It started out nearly six years ago when my middle sister, Jeanette, passed away from complications with the AIDS virus. My mom and I started taking care of Jeanette's three boys plus my oldest son and that was a challenge. Then a year after my sister passed I had another little boy, so that made it four boys, and wow that was crazy. Fast forward to this past October, my other sister got incarcerated and my mom and I then took in her five children. The kids can pretty much help and take care of themselves. They include Alvin, 15, Seymour, 15, James, 12, Stephon 12, Tierra 7, Michael 7, Zahiem 4, and Zion 4.

What are some of the biggest difficulties you and your family face?
Not having enough fiscal support. We are constantly dealing with disconnections and things like that. There is not enough income coming in and the state really doesn't help due to the circumstances of how the children came to live with us. I just started a part-time job, finally, so that may help a little. We always manage to stay positive.

Are there advantages of taking care of such a big family?
The advantage of taking care of such a big family is the togetherness and love. We don't mind them having friends, but many of them are close in age, so they can keep [each other] busy.

What are some of your favorite ways to spend family time together?
Well since I recently just got a job most of the things we like to do we haven't lately. But normally, we cook very big meals, watch movies, play video games, and just find time to have family nights in.

Are you ever able to find time just for yourself? If so, what do you like to do?
No, I never have time for myself. There is no such thing time for myself with 11 people in one house.

What are your hopes and dreams for the future–any hopes for your nieces and nephews?
I want them to go on into the world with all the values I've taught them to be successful and do just that! I want them never to forget how much I love them, and want them to love everyone also.

What are your favorite and least favorite parts about being a ParAunt?
The good thing about being a ParAunt is teaching [my nieces and nephews] how to love others. The least favorite thing is because it's hard finding a companion with all my responsibilities.

Being an Aunt is great and I wouldn't change it for the world. I would rather struggle then to see them on the streets without a home.

Published: May 10, 2011