The numbers are staggering.

 

At any given time in the state of Texas, over 6,000 children are in foster care awaiting adoption. These children are legally free and longing for a loving, adoptive family to call their own. In Region 1, an area covering the 41 counties surrounding Amarillo and Lubbock, there are over 300 children ready to be adopted.

 

But there is hope.

 

Recently, the Women’s Commission of Texas, including Amarillo’s own Amy Henderson, and the Office of the First Lady of Texas partnered with the University of Texas to advocate for the establishment of Heart Gallery programs throughout the state. Subsequently, during the 88th Texas Legislative session, lawmakers approved funding to launch Heart Gallery programs across Texas.

 

The Heart Gallery of the Panhandle Plains has since opened and is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children in foster care, specifically those within the Amarillo and Lubbock areas.

The organizational mission is connecting hearts through the power of innovative, photographic storytelling by generating hope, restoring dignity, and highlighting the individuality and worth of each child seeking a loving family through adoption.

The goal is to create a platform where waiting children can connect with potential families through portrait exhibits that showcase their unique personalities and strengths. The photo galleries also serve to foster awareness of the needs of these children and to facilitate collaborative efforts, so they receive the support and resources necessary for a bright future.

By working together with volunteer photographers, businesses and organizations who donate exhibit space, and churches or groups who willingly provide avenues for sharing the mission, Heart Gallery of the Panhandle Plains is providing hope and making a difference in the lives of these deserving Texas children.

If you find that or your church or organization are interested in learning more about helping connect waiting children with potential adoptive families, please contact Amy Crowley, Amarillo-area Program Coordinator at amy.crowley@heartygallerypptx.org, 806-231-1276 or www.heartgallerypptx.org.