Interview by Angelica Villa and Dulce Villa. Photos provided by Heart Galleries of Texas.
With over a decade of proven success in Central Texas– where adoption rates have consistently outpaced the state average– the Heart Gallery model is now expanding statewide, thanks to support from the 88th Texas Legislative session. It has been in the North Texas region since September 2021. This initiative, powered by dedicated professionals like Tanya Houk, Director of Child Advocacy for the Heart Gallery of North Texas, aims to ensure every child can find a place to call home. We connected with Tanya to learn insights into the Heart Gallery’s mission, the power of storytelling through photography, and the transformative impact of connecting children with caring families.
Tanya: There are several permanent locations. Four malls host these galleries: Stonebriar Mall in Frisco, Town East Mall in Mesquite, Hulen Mall in Fort Worth, and The Parks Mall in Arlington. At Stonebriar Mall, for example, the photographs of children available for adoption are regularly updated as children get adopted. These galleries have been up for several years and are some of the longest-running exhibits in the area. Additionally, many of the Metropolitan YMCAs, particularly on the west side of Tarrant County and in surrounding counties, also feature permanent Heart Gallery exhibits. Lastly, a few national insurance companies have Heart Galleries displayed in their professional office buildings.
Tanya: At any given time, there are between 5,000 to 7,000 children in foster care who are available for adoption. Their parents’ rights have been terminated, and they are waiting to be placed in a permanent home. If that doesn’t happen, these children risk aging out of the system without the support of a family, which often leads to significant challenges as adults. They may struggle with things like finding stable jobs or having a support system when they go off to school or navigate life’s challenges. It’s crucial to find permanent families for these children, so they have a place to return to during holidays or a network of adults to help guide them. Last year alone, over 500 kids in our region aged out of foster care without finding permanency, and many of these young adults end up homeless. Addressing this issue while they are still children is key to preventing them from facing these struggles as adults.
Tanya: The Heart Gallery began in Central Texas, specifically in the Austin area, around 2014, and it saw a significant increase in awareness about adoption from foster care. Many people in the community were unaware that they could adopt from foster care without first becoming foster parents. The concept of a “matched adoption” or “straight adoption” from foster care was new to many. By spreading the word that these children are available for adoption, even without fostering, the Heart Gallery helped increase the number of adoptions in Central Texas. This success caught the attention of decision-makers in the foster care system, who recognized the value of the initiative. As a result, it has expanded into a statewide effort, with now 11 Heart Galleries across Texas. Each gallery works to find families for children in their specific region. For example, the Heart Gallery of North Texas covers 19 counties, all focused on finding homes for children in that area.
Tanya: Yes, I’ve seen many stories where the magic of this process unfolds. One story that stands out is about a teenage boy who was recently featured in the Heart Gallery. Teenage boys, in particular, can be the hardest to place in adoptive homes, and this young man had been in foster care for six or seven years. He had faced the uncertainty and challenges that come with being in the system for such a long time. However, he was adopted by a single dad, which is a truly heartwarming outcome. I’m actually going to meet the father in court next week, which is exciting. For this 15-year-old, being adopted after so many years in care has completely changed his life. I’ve placed many teenagers over the years, and it’s remarkable to see how their outlook on life shifts once they realize they have a permanent family to support them. The fear of the future melts away, and the sense of security and belonging they gain is incredibly rewarding.
Tanya: If someone at home feels inspired to take action, there are several ways to support our efforts. First and foremost, we’re always looking for families who are open to adopting older children, sibling groups, or children who may be harder to place. The goal of the Heart Gallery is to connect these children with permanent families. However, we also recognize that not everyone is equipped to adopt right now. In that case, there are many other ways to help. We’re in need of volunteers to assist with special events, as well as photographers who can take updated photos of the children. In North Texas alone, there are over 3,000 children available for adoption, and we’re constantly working to keep their photos up-to-date. Another way to get involved is by volunteering as a mentor for a child in foster care, or becoming a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) for a child in need. Additionally, Heart Gallery North Texas is hosting two Christmas parties for children this year—one at Hulen Mall, which generously offered us an empty store for a Candyland-themed party, and another at the American Airlines Museum. These events are made possible by businesses and individuals who donate their space, time, and resources. If you have a business or an event location and would be willing to host a Heart Gallery exhibit or gathering, we would love to collaborate. Offering your business, your time, or simply being a positive presence in a child’s life can make a tremendous difference.
Tanya: I’m truly excited about the direction our state is taking to support families who are adopting and, most importantly, to help children find permanency. The focus is on reducing the number of children who age out of the system without a permanent family. It’s heartening to see such a strong effort to connect children who are available for adoption with families who can provide the love and stability they need. This work is truly making a difference, and I’m excited to be part of it.
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