Published: Aug. 22, 2024
TYLER, Texas (KLTV) -A picture is worth a thousand words. That’s the motto motivating a program now making its debut in East Texas. It’s called the Heart Gallery East Texas, which officially launched August 20th. Director of Heart Galleries of Texas, Kori Gough, says the statewide initiative hopes to help children in the foster care system who need it the most.
“Specifically, children that have been languishing in foster care. So, you’re talking your older youth, your sibling groups, and kids with medical and behavioral needs”.
One of the functions of the program is to bring a Heart Gallery website to the regions it expands to, showcasing kids eligible for adoption with personalized profiles including professional portraits. Gough says they work closely with kids to make sure they are representing them the way they want to be seen.
“So, it’s revolutionized what not only the community sees of this child, but what this child wants the community to see”.
With the help of volunteer photographers, they are able to create custom portraits to be used on the Heart Gallery’s page. Another big function of the program includes connecting with community organizations and business to host a gallery showing where children’s portraits can be showcased. This is in efforts to raise awareness on kids in that community needing a forever home.
At the beginning of 2023, Heart Galleries of Texas received $12 million in funding from the 88th Legislative Session to continue expanding across the state. Gough says the funding will also help families post adoption with necessary resources.
“Not only are we here for you for the adoption itself, but we’re here for the entire journey because it’s a journey”.
The program’s launch took place inside Willow Brook Country Club in Tyler. In attendance were the First Lady of Texas, Cecilia Abbott, and Tyler Mayor Don Warren. This launch marks the program’s 8th region expansion.
“We’re just super excited to have The Fostering Collective and 4Kids4Families being the partners to lead this program here,” Gough says.
Adoptive parents Kenneth and Jenny Kerr also attended the event along with their 15-year-old adopted daughter Lili. They say seeing resources like this made available brings them hope for the future.
”Pictures are works with a thousand words, and truly one picture can change a life.” Kenneth says.
To see East Texas kids available for adoption or to get involved with Heart Gallery East Texas, you can access their page here.