Jasmine
Adopted
CLICK HERE to help us spread JOY to foster children this holiday season!
Reggie
Adopted
Reggie is such a special kid in that, despite the difficult things he has been through, he still always has a huge smile on his face.
A natural born leader, Reggie thrives in situations that push him to grow – especially in his academics and in athletics. He loves playing outside and is a huge fan of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers; in fact, he has dreams of playing in the NFL one day. A typical weekend with Reggie would include playing outside, either football or flag football, playing video games, or experimenting with fun science projects. Reggie feels his best quality is that he is a good friend and nice to everyone. He really admires those who make a difference for others, specifically Martin Luther King Jr, and “the difference he has made on black and brown kids”. A two-parent family would be ideal for Reggie and he would love to have some older siblings to look up to (and play sports with). A family who enjoys sports, is active on the weekends, and will allow him the opportunity to keep in contact with his siblings would be the best match for Reggie.
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.
