Simone Biles: A Shining Example of Kinship Care

Simone Biles, the world-renowned gymnast, is not just a symbol of athletic excellence but also a powerful example of the positive impact of kinship care. When Simone was just a child, her grandparents, Ron and Nellie Biles, adopted and raised her and her sister due to their biological mother’s struggles with addiction. This act of love and commitment allowed Simone to grow up in a stable and nurturing environment, where she could thrive both personally and professionally.

“I went from Grandma—and I was perfectly fine with Grandma—and then when that time came of being called mom, that’s a powerful word,” —Nellie Biles

Simone Biles Rising, Netflix 2024

Kinship care, where relatives or close family friends take on the responsibility of raising children whose parents are unable to do so, plays a crucial role in providing continuity and emotional support. For Simone, being raised by her grandparents meant having the security and encouragement she needed to pursue her dreams.

At Parent Support Services Society of BC (PSS), we recognize the critical role that kinship care plays in providing children with the stability and emotional support they need. Our Kinship Care Services aim to empower families like Simone’s by offering resources, guidance, and community support to kinship caregivers. Just as Simone’s grandparents provided her with the security and encouragement necessary to pursue her dreams, we strive to support kinship families in creating loving environments where children can flourish.

“We were very fortunate that we actually got to stay with our siblings because a lot of the time you either get regrouped from home to home to home or you and your siblings get split up,” she shared on Simone Vs. Herself.”

Simone Vs Herself, 2021

Simone’s story highlights the strength and resilience that kinship care can offer. Her grandparents’ dedication and support were instrumental in her development. Their story exemplifies how kinship care can create a loving and supportive environment that empowers children to reach their full potential.

Parent Support Services Society operates a provincial Kinship Care Help Line, offering guidance and support to grandparents and other relatives raising children. This free, confidential service connects caregivers with vital resources, legal information, and emotional support to help them navigate the challenges of kinship care.