Teegan
Adopted
Shyanne
16 years old
Adopted
Shyanne has a heart of gold. She is optimistic, honest, cheerful, and always willing to help. She likes being around people and really comes out of her shell when she feels comfortable and safe. Shyanne loves to read and dreams of being an author when she grows up. She does well in school and feels English and Math are her best subjects. Her perfect day would consist of waking up to warm weather, going swimming in a pool, and then coming back home to a cup of tea and cuddling up with a good book. Shyanne would love to play a part in choosing a family for herself. When asked what kind of family she would like, she stated “A family that is understanding, will show up for me, and be compassionate. Also, a family that respects my opinions and thoughts. One that’s trustworthy, calm, rational, and is family-oriented and wants to do activities together. I also want a family that allows me to have some freedom and is willing to teach me. I also want a family that’s able to articulate and express themselves well, with an interest in investing in my needs and wants, while being encouraging and supportive.” She would do best with a family who is loving, caring, inclusive, and aware of emotional needs and how to parent children through trauma. She is open to any make up or family dynamic and would do well as a single child or with other children in the home. Shyanne would love to be with a family who makes her the priority, understands her emotional needs, and will allow and encourage her to become the best version of herself.
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.
