Serenity & Alayah
Adopted
CLICK HERE to help us spread JOY to foster children this holiday season!
Angel & Luz
Adopted
Eager and hopeful for a forever family with siblings to look up to and love..
"Always up for an adventure!"
Angel, 14 Angel is a compassionate kid who makes friends easily and is always sure to include everyone as he never wants anyone to feel forgotten or alone. He's an old soul who loves writing his own songs, listening to music and going to church. However, like most teenage boys, he also loves video games, watching movies, and doing the opposite of what his younger sister wants to do. Angel is a great kid who is constantly focusing on bettering himself and his situation, despite challenges and obstacles he has faced in his life. Something Angel wants his future family to know is that he is sweet, kind and wants to be and FBI agent when he grows up. Luz, 12 Luz is friendly, talkative and curious about the world around her. She can be a little timid when it comes to new situations, but once she warms up, will sit and chat with you about pretty much anything. Luz loves younger children and would be a great big sister. She loves computer games, horses, and Christian rap. When Luz grows up she wants to be a music teacher and in her spare time, is going to do her part in solving the planet's plastic waste problems. Angel & Luz will do best with a family that is fun, active, and has a good understanding of trauma and special needs. Â Both children have experienced a lot in their lives and have come a long way with the consistency and love their foster mother has provided. A family that goes to church or one who will allow them to continue in their faith is a must.
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.
Your Gift: Hope, Love, & Transformation
Your kindness fuels our mission. Donate to The Heart Gallery of Tampa, support unique photo experiences for foster children, and advocate for their rights. See your gift ignite powerful, positive change.
