A statewide initiative, that includes local nonprofits, is aiming to get more kids adopted prior to aging out of the foster care system, so they can find a permanent family and a support system entering adulthood. Through public photo exhibits in local communities, Heart Galleries of Texas showcases children waiting for adoption. Each child’s story, personality, and interests are highlighted, helping families see the real child behind the statistics. By connecting kids with families in their own communities, Heart Galleries increases awareness, advocacy, and, most importantly, permanent placements. Texas has committed $24 million to expand Heart Galleries and post-adoption services, helping more families succeed and keeping kids from aging out of foster care without support. It’s changing lives and giving kids a chance to grow up in families, in communities they know and love.
- Thousands of kids in Texas foster care are waiting for a permanent home.
- Last year alone, 860 youth aged out of foster care, entering adulthood without any support.
- Of the 5,000 children eligible for adoption in Texas right now, about 1,500 are older, part of sibling groups, or have complex needs (can be more challenging for adoption).
Why Heart Galleries exists:
- Raises awareness and builds community support for children in foster care
- Increases the number of families who foster and adopt
- Provides post-adoption support to reduce disruptions
- Helps children stay in their communities
- Decreases the time kids spend waiting in foster care
The impact so far with Heart Galleries and post-adoption support:
- From July 2024-June 2025
- 1,094 youth featured
- 1,810 exhibits displayed
- 324 removed due to adoption placement
- 536 stakeholder meetings with 6,667 attendees
- 844 community events with 99,064 attendees
- From January 2025-June 2025
- 788 families received basic or emergency assistance who were fostering or adoptive families
- 1,537 clients received mental health services through post-adoption support
- 493 youth participated in normalcy activities
- 2,311 attendees at family bonding events, camps, or activities
- 197 support groups held with 1,899 attendees
- 907 caregiver trainings with 1,512 attendees
Source: press release
