Financial aid for caregivers...of parents?

[reachystik]

I have been searching for financial aid for this unique situation (caregiver to both of my parents-lung cancer & systemic lupus..now both are on chemo- I'm providing care via long distance while I am in my courses, and in person when I am able to travel).

I have found financial aid options for individuals with dependents...aka... children. I have not found anything yet for the other way around, and I am getting overwhelmed, frustrated and think there's nothing out there to help me.

Before I throw in the towel and leave before my final year, I'm wondering, is there such a thing as financial aid for individuals like myself?

It's a shitty deal either way, leaving means "hello OSAP & LOC payments on my $65000 debt" in a town where there are no good jobs (hence why I left to get a good education). But, continuing on this way is exhausting.

Any advice?

Slaps in the face from reality?

I'm open to it all.

Thank you.

[Rachel B]

What is your tax situation with your parents? Unfortunately, that will be a big factor. If you're able to claim your parents as your own dependents, you may open the door to more financial aid. If you're not able to, it's very unlikely that you'll find financial aid for your situation. Here's a helpful article on claiming your parents as dependents http://newoldage.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/08/18/can-i-claim-my-mother-as-a-dependent/

I would suggest making some phone calls to financial aid departments to further your search too.