Eddie
Waiting
Donate now to spread JOY to Heart Gallery kids this holiday season.
Xaniel
9 years old
Waiting
Calling all science buffs!
Meet Xaniel, a science and math lover! Friendly and kind, Xaniel wants to be “lots of stuff” when he grows up, but one of those things is scientist. He loves doing experiments or mixing potions and works hard at school. Xaniel is a happy child who enjoys being around others, easy to get along with and eager to play with other children. Also sporty, Xaniel plays football, proud that he is “strong and fast.” Xaniel is also thoughtful and compassionate. If he could change one thing about the world, it would be to “stop bullying each other, being rude and abusing each other.” Xaniel tries to be helpful to everyone he knows. He’s hoping for an active family that likes to go places like the park or for a game of laser tag together. His friends describe him as “confident” and his caretakers say, “he is very active and constantly playing with those around him.” Open and kind, smart and upbeat, Xaniel wants his future family to know “everything about me.” He’s ready for a forever home.
Inquire About Me
Click the link below and fill out our prospective parent form as a next step.
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.
