22F in Texas unexpectedly became caregiver to 16-year-old + her boyfriend — how can I help without financially drowning?
I’m 22 I’m and live in Texas, and I’m honestly feeling really overwhelmed and could use some guidance.
My boyfriend’s mom recently had her CPS case closed. She and her oldest daughter (16) have been estranged and don’t have a good relationship. When I got my own place, the daughter came to stay with me for a weekend. I’ve known her for about four years and have always tried to be a positive female role model for her. She’s also my 3-year-old son’s aunt, so I’ve always cared about her and wanted the best for her.
She ended up staying and hasn’t gone back home. Her mom is now talking about giving me power of attorney, but I honestly don’t know what that would mean for me legally or financially, and I’m worried about taking on more than I can handle.
Her 17-year-old boyfriend is staying here too because apparently they had been staying together before this. Everything happened very quickly, and I don’t know all of the details of their situation. Right now, we’re trying to help them get IDs, GEDs/finish school, jobs, and generally get them on a better path.
The problem is that I’m barely making it financially as it is. I’ve been paying for everything out of pocket. I applied for food stamps three months ago and still haven’t gotten them. I haven’t added the 16-year-old to my benefits because I don’t want to accidentally break any rules or claim something I’m not legally entitled to.
I feel really obligated to help because I’ve watched this girl grow up, and I genuinely believe that living here has been good for her. She seems much more peaceful here, they both do their chores, listen to me, and seem to be doing better than they were before. But I also have a 3-year-old son, and I’m starting to worry that I’m going to financially and emotionally overwhelm myself trying to save everyone.
I guess I’m looking for advice from anyone who has been in a similar situation, especially in Texas.
Are there programs or financial assistance available for someone informally caring for a 16-year-old? What should I know before accepting power of attorney? Is there a way to get help with food, housing, school, medical care, or anything else without putting myself at risk financially or legally?
I want to help these kids, but I also need to make sure I’m not drowning myself or putting my own child at risk in the process.