Teegan
Adopted
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Julieanne & Eric
Adopted
Where Hope Finds a Home.
This special sibling set brings a diverse world of love. Julieanne is a social butterfly, admitting that her friends would describe her as "energetic." Her big brother, Eric, is a bit more reserved and learning how to communicate in his own ways. Although uniquely different, both are described as people-persons. Outgoing and fun, Julieanne fits in with all types of people and loves riding horses. Eric can be shy, but once he warms up, he is active and fun, swimming in the pool or kicking balls. At school, Julieanne always puts forth her best effort. Her favorite subject is reading, and she loves to draw. Eric, too, is excited to learn, proud to know his ABC's and numbers, and fascinated by fans. He loves watching someone create a paper fan. Julieanne could be a social worker or a lawyer when she grows up, as she's very aware of how society judges, and wishes she could read minds as her super-power. Both children are kind to others. Julieanne also loves experimenting with make-up and watching TikTok videos, and Eric wishes he could travel "somewhere to where zebras live." Both children love to be loved, showing kindness and gratitude to all. They would do best in an accepting and loving family. As Julieanne writes, "we want a nice family, fun. A family with siblings, both younger and older, and we can be in the middle." Photo by: Stephanie Annette Photography
FAQs
If a child in foster care is in the Heart Gallery, reunification with their biological family was not possible so an adoptive family is needed. Most Heart Gallery children are at least 9 years old, part of a sibling group, and/or have special needs. All children in foster care have experienced abuse, abandonment, and/or neglect; therefore, need support to heal from the trauma they have experienced.
All children are different, with a variety of unique strengths and needs so all types of families are needed. In Florida, you must be at least 21 to adopt a child from foster care. There are no restrictions based on age, race, marital status, or sexual orientation. You may live in a home or apartment that you own or rent. Adoptive parents must have a stable income sufficient to support their family.
In Florida, there is no cost to adopt a child from foster care. In fact, families who adopt may qualify for a monthly adoption subsidy. Health care for children adopted from foster care is covered by Medicaid until age 18. They also receive free tuition at any Florida state college, university, or vocational school.
Federal tax credits and exemptions may also be available. Visit the IRS website to learn more.
Prospective adoptive parents must complete Adoption Orientation, a 36-hour Professional Parenting course, have an approved home study, and approved background screenings. Most importantly, you must be willing to make a lifelong commitment to a child in need.
Yes. One of the benefits of adopting from Florida is having access to a comprehensive case history. You will be given information on the child’s background, medical history, and personality. This information helps you determine if your family is the right fit for the child.
This can vary greatly depending on the situation. However, as a general rule, it usually takes about 12 months from the time a family begins training to the time when a child is placed with the family.
Yes! Your approved home study should be accepted by any child welfare agency. Each circumstance will be assessed to determine if it is appropriate for a child to move out of state. Keep in mind these adoptions can be more complex and take longer, depending on the case.
Adoptions appear to be more stable when parents have flexible and realistic expectations for their children and when they use post-adoption supports to help with challenges.
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