Meet Carlos…

Meet 13-year-old Carlos who has a strong passion for sports and loves staying active. His favorite activities include playing basketball, running track, and football. Being part of a team and staying busy are very important to him.
Carlos has several simple pleasures in life, for example, his favorite foods, which include pizza, macaroni, and tacos.
Carlos enjoys extracurricular activities as he has a strong passion for sports and loves staying active. Topping his list of favorite activities include playing basketball, running track, and football.
Like many young teens his age, he also likes playing video games, watching television, especially sporting events like baseball, basketball, and football.
As for his future education, Carlos said he would like to attend college and play for the college team.
Carlos would thrive in a forever family where he feels included. He enjoys being around others. Most importantly, Carlos needs a family that can offer him love, encouragement, and a strong sense of belonging.
In his own words … Hi, my name is Carlos. I enjoy showing my fun and talkative side and enjoy spending time with my friends.
If you think you could be a forever family for Carlos or another Texas child, please call 1-800-233-3405 for more information or visit www.adoptchildren.org where you can find a schedule of online public information meetings, and learn about the foster/adoption program.
You can also view the www.heartgallerystx.org website, where South Texas children have their portraits along with individual personal stories they wish to share, with their future forever family.

Meet a trio of siblings ready for their forever family

Meet 13-year-old Adam. When first meeting him, he can be a bit shy, but once he gets to know someone, he becomes comfortable in expressing his personality and loves to make others laugh.
Adam enjoys playing with Hot Wheels and building Lego sets. Some of his other favorites include dinosaurs and collecting McDonald’s Happy Meal toys.
If he could eat one food every day, he would choose a McDonald’s Happy Meal with a cheeseburger and French fries—along with an extra cheeseburger on the side.
In his free time, he enjoys listening to music and singing, as well as going on car rides where he can look at all the cars and buildings around him. He really likes basketball as it is one of his favorite activities to play outside.
One of his dreams is to see a professional basketball game in person someday. Adam loves helping others and showing how strong he is—whether it is carrying things or accompanying someone on errands.
For his future, Adam says when he grows up, he wants to be a police officer so he can help protect the people he loves.
In his own words – “Hi, I am Adam and I love smiling and making others laugh! I hope to be a police officer one day to protect those I love and care for.”
Sebashton
At ten years of age, Sebashton is an energetic and socially motivated child who shows a strong desire for connection and belonging.
He enjoys engaging in active recreational activities which include his favorite sports, soccer, followed by basketball, as he loves playing outside and staying physically active.
Sebashton shows interest in music and plays his favorite songs on speakers to share his music with his sister and brother.
He also enjoys watching TV in his free time whenever he is not playing outside.
In his own words – “I am Sebashton and I love listening to music and playing sports. I am ready to play basketball with my forever family.”
Makaila
Makaila who is nine years old, is a social and bright young girl who is full of life. She has a great sense of humor and loves making others laugh.
For fun, Makaila enjoys playing outside, creating arts & crafts, and making jewelry out of anything available.
She also enjoys drawing with chalk on the sidewalk and observing and drawing pictures of nature, such as flowers, birds, and the sun.
Makaila enjoys reading a good book as it opens her mind to limitless imagination. Her current preference is the Goosebumps series.
In her own words – “I am Makaila and I enjoy playing outside and learning new crafts. I enjoy making others laugh.”
If you think you could be a forever family for this trio – or another Texas child, please call 1-800-233-3405 for more information or visit www.adoptchildren.org where you can find a schedule of online public information meetings, and learn about the foster/adoption program.
You can also view the www.heartgallerystx.org website, where South Texas children have their portraits along with individual personal stories they wish to share, with their future forever family.

Meet Jax

Meet Jax
Meet Jasmine who likes to go by Jax, who has an interest in learning to play the guitar and listening to music (like rock and metal), dancing, and drawing in black and white format. 
At school one of Jax’s favorite classes is choir, along with an interest in learning French, German, and Dutch.
On the topic of learning, Jax is looking forward to learning how to drive and obtaining a drivers license. 
When asked about possible career ideas, Jax says the love of drawing may lead to a career as a tattoo artist. 
Jax currently does not have any pets; however, as an animal lover, having any pet ranging from large farm animals, to a small bird, or a house pet any size in between would be great!
If you think you could be a forever family for Jax, or another Texas child, please call 1-800-233-3405 for more information or visit www.adoptchildren.org where you can find a schedule of online public information meetings, and learn about the foster/adoption program.
You can also view the www.heartgallerystx.org website, where South Texas children have their portraits along with individual personal stories they wish to share, with their future forever family.

Meet energetic and social butterfly, Adian

Adian is a very happy and energetic 14-year-old boy whose life battery never runs out, as he is always in a joyful mood. Adian enjoys watching TV especially if the show or movie is animal themed, with his favorite movies being Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, and How to Train Your Dragon. When it comes to meals, he loves to eat just about anything, however topping the favorite snack list is – green apples! 
Adian is currently enrolled in high school and has fun ridding the bus daily, as it gives him an opportunity to interact & socialize with his friends before heading to class, where he is continuing to develop his nonverbal communications skills. 
Although Adian does not have any pets of his own, he really loves all animals, so if his future family has a puppy, which he can care for and call his own, that would be such a plus. 
Some things Adian enjoys 
-Walking in the park, 
-Trying new foods, 
-Watching movies,
-Eating apples
-Chocolate milk, 
Adian would benefit from a two-parent forever family with experience caring for children who need one on one attention.
If you think you could be a forever family for Adian, or another Texas child, please call 1-800-233-3405 for more information or visit www.adoptchildren.org where you can find a schedule of online public information meetings, and learn about the foster/adoption program.
You can also view the www.heartgallerystx.org website, where South Texas children have their portraits along with individual personal stories they wish to share, with their future forever family.
Basic Adoption Requirements
The prospective foster/adoptive parents may be single or married and must:
-be at least 21 years of age, financially stable, and responsible mature adults
-complete an application (staff will assist you if you prefer)
-share information regarding their background and lifestyle
-provide relative and non-relative references
-show proof of marriage and/or divorce (if applicable)
-agree to a home study which includes visits with all household members
-allow staff to complete a criminal history background check and an abuse/neglect check on all -adults in the household
-attend free training to learn about issues of abused and neglected children 
Post Adoption Services
Adopted children who have been abused or neglected often need help coping with the effects of abuse and the loss of their birth family.
All families of children adopted through DFPS can get post adoption services. For more information about the services available visit https://www.dfps.texas.gov/

Sister Act…Meet sisters Mia & Mi Alma

Together, these sisters are a loving pair seeking to be matched with their forever family.

Meet 12-year-old Serenidad, who prefers to go by Mia, and her 6 year old baby sister Mi Alma.
Mia is a bright, well-spoken and energetic child who enjoys staying busy and trying new things. Mia loves creative activities such as painting, coloring, crafting, and collecting Pokémon cards, which gives her a fun way to express her imagination and personality.
Mia is a very cheerful child who shows strong self-confidence, enthusiasm, and natural curiosity about the world around her. These traits help her build an authentic and positive sense of who she is. Mia also demonstrates leadership qualities through her responsibility, integrity, and strong work ethic, along with her desire to be a positive role model for others, especially for her little sister.
One of Mia’s favorite sports is basketball, and she looks forward to the opportunity to join her school’s basketball team. She also enjoys activities that challenge her thinking, such as playing with Legos and building blocks.
Mia likes attending church and being involved in her church’s youth group. She is outgoing and enjoys participating in plays and giving speeches, showing confidence and comfort when speaking in front of others. 
Mi Alma, who is 6 years old, is a sweet, loving child who enjoys using her imagination to bring the world around her to life.
She loves playing with her toys and creating stories and adventures in her mind, especially with favorites like Barbies, toy appliances, and stuffed animals.
Mi Alma has a big heart for animals and enjoys playing with them whenever she can, with dogs being her favorite. Her caring nature shines through in the way she connects with animals and treats them with affection.
Also on the list of fun activities is arts and crafts, as she often comes home proudly carrying her drawings, letters, paintings, and other creative projects.
Her playful spirit, creativity, and gentle personality make her a joy to be around.
If you think you could be a forever family for Mia and Alma or another Texas child, please call 1-800-233-3405 for more information or visit www.adoptchildren.org where you can find a schedule of online public information meetings, and learn about the foster/adoption program.
You can also view the www.heartgallerystx.org

Meet sibling trio Michael, Lorenzo and Evangelina

Say hello to three very attached children, two brothers and their little sister who are seeking to be adopted together, 
Michael is the oldest at 8 years of age, Lorenzo is 6, and Evangelina is the youngest at 5, they all share a strong sibling bond and truly enjoy spending time together. 
The trio is an energetic and playful group who find joy in both indoor and outdoor activities. Whether it’s a sunny day at the park or a relaxed afternoon at home, they love staying active and creating fun experiences together. 
They enjoy building with blocks and using their imaginations to create new ideas, and they also love expressing their creativity through arts and crafts, especially coloring and painting.
Mealtimes are a favorite part of their day, and they especially enjoy chicken nuggets and macaroni, along with any opportunity for a sweet treat. They also like going out to eat, where they can sit, talk, and enjoy a meal as a family. 
These siblings are protective, affectionate, and quick to laugh, thriving when they can share their playful energy, especially while running, climbing, and playing together on the playground. Their teamwork, creativity, and strong connection to one another make them a wonderful sibling group full of joy and warmth. 
These siblings are seeking to be adopted by a family who will love and care for them as they grow to reach their full potential in life, a life they can share with their forever family. 
If you think you could be a forever family for this three siblings or another Texas child, please call 1-800-233-3405 for more information or visit www.adoptchildren.org where you can find a schedule of online public information meetings, and learn about the foster/adoption program.
You can also view the www.heartgallerystx.org website, where South Texas children have their portraits along with individual personal stories they wish to share, with their future forever family.
All families of children adopted through DFPS can get post adoption services. For more information about the services available visit https://www.dfps.texas.gov/

Meet Joey … a sports fan looking for a forever family

Meet 13-year-old Joey … a sports fan looking to be matched to his forever family …
Joey is described by his caseworker as a cheerful & energetic boy who is a joy be around, and although he may seem a little shy at first, he quickly forms connections when he finds shared interest with others. As he loves to learn from others on a variety of topics. And that learning discussion leads to making new friendships. The quest to learn is a part of Joey’s natural curious and adventurous nature, as he is always eager to lean and explore new things.
Joey enjoys all sports and activities, but he has shown a special interest in soccer, basketball, and football, and wishes to continue to thrive and develop in these activities. He loves to play soccer as it is favorite sport and plays on his schools’ team.
Even though he likes to be outside, Joey also enjoys indoor activities like watching TV and playing video games, such as Fortnite and Roblox.
Joey would like his future forever family to know he is loves going to amusement parks, and he is not a picky eater, but given the option, he prefers Mexican style food. And would like to have a mother and father to be cheering him on as his biggest fans in the stands, as he plays in his various sports…
In his own words; Hello! My name is Joey! I love soccer and football; I can’t wait to show you, my talent!
If you think you could be a forever family for Joey, or another Texas child, please call 1-800-233-3405 for more information or visit www.adoptchildren.org where you can find a schedule of online public information meetings, and learn about the foster/adoption program.
You can also view the www.heartgallerystx.org website, where South Texas children have their portraits along with individual personal stories they wish to share, with their future forever family.

Meet Felipe … a charismatic, charming teen

Meet Felipe, he is a charismatic, charming teen who is easy to get along with, as he prides himself in being honest and respectful.
During his free time, Felipe enjoys playing sports outside with others his age. He also enjoys playing online video games, along with listening to a variety of music, whether it be to fall asleep or just as a past time.
At school he likes and does well in all of his classes. Felipe enjoys cooking for himself as a method of displaying independence and enjoys cooking meals for those he cares deeply about. Felipe’s passion for cooking has inspired him to want to pursue a career as culinary chef and perhaps open his own restaurant.
Felipe can be competitive when it comes to his hobbies which are basketball, football, and he is a fan of the Baltimore Ravens.
Felipe says he is looking forward to being adopted by his forever family, one he can share new experiences and endeavors with, making new memories with his new family.
If you think you could be a forever family for Felipe, or another Texas child, please call 1-800-233-3405 for more information or visit www.adoptchildren.org where you can find a schedule of online public information meetings, and learn about the foster/adoption program.
You can also view the www.heartgallerystx.org website, where South Texas children have their portraits along with individual personal stories they wish to share, with their future forever family.
Basic Adoption Requirements
The prospective foster/adoptive parents may be single or married and must:
be at least 21 years of age, financially stable, and responsible mature adults
complete an application (staff will assist you if you prefer)
share information regarding their background and lifestyle
provide relative and non-relative references
show proof of marriage and/or divorce (if applicable)
agree to a home study which includes visits with all household members
allow staff to complete a criminal history background check and an abuse/neglect check on all adults in the household
attend free training to learn about issues of abused and neglected children

Ever thought about adoption?

Meet Felipe, he is a charismatic, charming teen who is easy to get along with, as he prides himself in being honest and respectful.
During his free time, Felipe enjoys playing sports outside with others his age. He also enjoys playing online video games, along with listening to a variety of music, whether it be to fall asleep or just as a past time.
At school he likes and does well in all of his classes. Felipe enjoys cooking for himself as a method of displaying independence and enjoys cooking meals for those he cares deeply about. Felipe’s passion for cooking has inspired him to want to pursue a career as culinary chef and perhaps open his own restaurant.
Felipe can be competitive when it comes to his hobbies which are basketball, football, and he is a fan of the Baltimore Ravens.
Felipe says he is looking forward to being adopted by his forever family, one he can share new experiences and endeavors with, making new memories with his new family.
If you think you could be a forever family for Felipe, or another Texas child, please call 1-800-233-3405 for more information or visit www.adoptchildren.org where you can find a schedule of online public information meetings, and learn about the foster/adoption program.
You can also view the www.heartgallerystx.org website, where South Texas children have their portraits along with individual personal stories they wish to share, with their future forever family.
Basic Adoption Requirements
The prospective foster/adoptive parents may be single or married and must:
be at least 21 years of age, financially stable, and responsible mature adults
complete an application (staff will assist you if you prefer)
share information regarding their background and lifestyle
provide relative and non-relative references
show proof of marriage and/or divorce (if applicable)
agree to a home study which includes visits with all household members
allow staff to complete a criminal history background check and an abuse/neglect check on all adults in the household
attend free training to learn about issues of abused and neglected children

Iliana…an outgoing and energetic 12 year old

Iliana Estrada is an outgoing and energetic twelve-year-old who is artistic and has a talent for drawing.
Enhancing her artistic abilities, she has a very open mind and a healthy curiosity, which adds to her creativity.
Iliana also enjoys cooking and is always willing to help others. Iliana also enjoys school and interacting with others her age.
When it comes to the outdoors, Iliana also enjoys swimming and camping. On her first time to be able to go fishing, she caught one, and she has been hooked ever since, and would like her future family to take her fishing someday.
A special day out and about for Iliana would be to eat at Peter Pipers Pizza, and spend the afternoon at the park or seeing a movie.
Fun facts about Iliana: Math is her favorite subject at school, reading is a fun pastime for her, and she is looking forward to trying out for the volleyball team.
When asked what she wanted to say to her future forever family – it was that she likes animals and would like to have a dog or cat, and that she wants to go to college for a career in law enforcement.
If you think you could be a forever family for Ilianna or another Texas child, please call 1-800-233-3405 for more information or visit www.adoptchildren.org where you can find a schedule of online public information meetings, and learn about the foster/adoption program.
You can also view the www.heartgallerystx.org website, where South Texas children have their portraits along with individual personal stories they wish to share, with their future forever family.