As the kids head back to school and begin their fall sports and activities, many parents find themselves with a full calendar. No matter how organized a person can be, sometimes you just want to throw your hands up and say, I wish there were two of me!
Cue Grandma On Demand, a new local business that acts as a third party assistant of sorts, willing to help you with the simple things, like picking up your mail or a run to the grocery store for milk.
“I created Grandma on Demand primarily as an emergency service,” said entrepreneur Leigh Wood.” We’re willing to do anything that a family requires to make life easier.
Right now, Wood is offering school drop-offs or pickups, assistance with appointments or lessons, light housekeeping, child care, and 2nd parent services, meal prep, baking, and respite services.
Wood says the idea came to her after several years managing the canteen at the Sportsplex. Watching hundreds of families come through the doors, many with the difficult task of getting one kid ready for hockey, while another is waiting for a snack and help with their homework.
A mother and grandmother herself, Wood says, watching families at the rink and helping with her two twin autistic grandsons shone a light on how overwhelming being a parent in today’s environment can be.
“The one thing I want people to know is that I sincerely want to make families’ lives easier,” added Wood. “I love hearing the family’s stories and struggles and together finding some kind of solution to lighten the load.”
Grandma on Demand can be found on Facebook and Twitter, and Wood encourages people to reach out and start a discussion; there are no tasks or ideas that are too outrageous.
“The one common feeling I have felt with those I have talked to is RELIEF and a feeling that someone understands what they are going through,” added Wood. “For me, that is exactly the reward I was hoping for.”
