by Lisa Carrico on November 22nd, 2022 in Exhibits | Comments

November 5, 2022 – February 2, 2023

Central Library | 1st Floor Gallery

500 McKinney St., 77002 | 393-1313

Heart Gallery Houston is a powerful, traveling photographic exhibit. This community education and awareness initiative was created to help find forever homes for children in foster care awaiting adoption. With the help of professional photographers who volunteer their time and the support of local businesses, churches, and community partners, these heartfelt canvas photos show the faces of children that long to find a forever family and a life with stability and love.

Growing up in the Texas foster care system is a reality for thousands of children. More than 6,000 children in Texas wait for a family and a place to call home. Sadly, a disproportionate number are children of color; Hispanic children are two times more likely to be removed. The foster care system cares for children of all ethnicities and of every age, ranging from newborn to 17 years. Most of the children featured in the gallery are older children, sibling groups, and children with special needs – often referred to as "forgotten children." While statistics of this special population are astounding, Heart Galleries is working nationwide to change these grim numbers.

Heart Gallery Houston is a program of Be A Resource (BEAR) Houston, a 501(c)(3) organization working with Harris County CPS and the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services to offer unique programs and supportive services that provide comfort, dignity, and celebration of successes for abused and neglected children.

To learn more about BEAR and their Heart Gallery Houston program, visit bearesourcehouston.org.

This exhibition is free and open to the public.