SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 584

WHEREAS, The Heart Galleries of Texas are working to raise awareness of children in state care who are currently waiting to be placed in permanent, loving homes; and

WHEREAS, Heart Galleries are traveling exhibits that feature portraits and biographies of foster children from the local community; the national model for the Heart Gallery originated with the New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Department in 2001, and Heart Galleries have since helped connect foster children with adoptive families in a number of states and cities across the country; and

WHEREAS, The State of Texas has embraced this innovative concept in recent years, and many community partners and adoption agencies have come forward to assist the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services in its efforts to promote the adoption of Texas children; Heart Galleries rely on a multitude of volunteers who lend their time and talents to this endeavor, as well as on community institutions, ranging from churches and libraries to businesses and state agencies, that generously serve as host venues for the program; and

WHEREAS, The Heart Galleries of Texas are making a profound difference in the lives of countless children, as well as in the lives of the families who choose to embark on the rewarding journey of opening their home to a young Texan in need; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 86th Legislature, hereby commend the Heart Galleries of Texas for their outstanding work to connect children with adoptive families and extend to all those involved with this worthwhile cause sincere best wishes for continued success.

Nelson

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on April 15, 2019.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate