Connecticut Heart Gallery

Meet the children!

There are hundreds of children in Connecticut right now who hope a special family will welcome them with open hearts and arms. These great kids need parents they can rely on and maybe siblings they can join!

Some have experienced trauma. Others have significant medical needs. Some just need parents. All of them are special and deserve a loving family. Maybe one of them will join yours.

We use aliases for children when they’re still going through legal procedures. These aliases are in quotation marks. Call us today to learn more about adoption or email the contact to learn more about a child.

Call 1-888-KID-HERO (1-888-543-4376)

Amanda

Sweet Amanda was born in 2007. This young lady needs a patient and accepting family who is willing to learn about her needs. She thrives when she knows what to expect. Within her abilities, she participates in family life and her daily school schedule with ease. Special supports will help you and help her achieve her full potential. Amanda wakes up happy and well-rested. She dresses herself, brushes her teeth (no cavities!), watches her favorite shows, and plays on her tablet. She enjoys being outside, walking in the park, and keeping her hands busy with fidget toys. Her foster mother is proud of her and describes her as "a really good kid!" Her laughter and bright smile will show you the contentment she feels when she knows she is safe and loved!

Email Nadine McDonald to learn more about Amanda

Aiyanna

Connecticut families only. Aiyanna was born in 2010 and has a personality that brightens any room! She greets each day with an infectious enthusiasm, ready to embrace whatever comes her way. Aiyanna has a friendly and adventurous spirit and sees the world as a place full of possibilities. She carries a strength that fuels her ability to connect with others. Aiyanna enjoys singing, dancing, gymnastics, and cooking. She’s eager to do well in school. Most important, she wants to share these experiences with a family she can call her own!

Email Nadine McDonald to learn more about Aiyanna

Jay’Vion

Jay’Vion has a fantastic smile! Born in 2013, he loves Lego toys, stuffies (stuffed animals), and video games. He’s affectionate and gives great hugs! Jay’Vion gets support to help him heal from past experiences. He responds very well to clear instructions. Jay’Vion looks forward to having a home where he can make friends -- and would like to have a dog someday, too. He’s looking for a family who will love and accept him unconditionally.

Email Sandra Tapia-Arcos to learn more about Jay’Vion

Eddy

Finding a family who shares a similar culture and interests are on the wish list for Eddy. He enjoys video games, fishing, playing cards, and playing or watching basketball. Eddy likes caring for large farm animals and love big dogs. He also enjoys cooking, baking, and helping with chores. Despite being let down by important adults in the past, Eddy is empathetic and kind. Eddy would thrive in a family where he’s the youngest child and can learn from older siblings. Eddy most wants to belong to a family who will take the time to build a trusting, stable, and successful relationship with him.

Email Nadine McDonald to learn more about Eddy

Jonah

Connecticut families only. Jonah has family in Connecticut he loves visiting and these relationships are important to maintain. Born in 2012, he’s ready to join a family that will love him forever and meet his medical needs. Jonah is non-verbal and likes to be told what will happen. He uses adaptive equipment and needs help with all daily activities (bathing, dressing, and nutrition). A family that can meet his needs now and in the future will benefit from nursing supports and training for his needs. Jonah gets special services in school and his teachers say he’s making good progress on all goals and likes being with his peers. He enjoys music and toys that make noise and needs a family that will soothe and comfort him. He needs a family that will love him and be by his side, forever. View Doors to Hope and Healing featuring Jonah.

Email Sandy Carroll to learn more about Jonah

Isabella

This sweet and giggly girls was born in 2012. “Bella” has a very loving and social disposition. She’s expressive and loves to hug and snuggle while you chat about your day. Bella is working on her language skills and can also communicate through her iPad to let her needs be known. She feeds herself, drinks from a sippy cup, and propels herself wherever she needs to go. Her teachers and friends love her positive energy. She thrives on structure and routine. Bella will receive professional care in and out of your home. She longs to give her hugs and love to a family that can keep her smiling and meet her needs. View Doors to Hope and Healing featuring Isabella.

Email Holly Nesdale to learn more about Isabella

Teagan

Teagan is famous for his wink, sweet smile, and cheery disposition. Born in 2009, he needs a family that will meet his special needs. Teagan enjoys watching TV and moving to music. He’s energetic and likes to be active: holding his hand and keeping him close allows him to engage with the world around him in a safe manner. Teagan communicates with sign language and can make his needs known with vocalizations. He enjoys his school teachers and friends and he does well with additional supports. He responds well to consistency, routine, and structure. It will be very rewarding to watch Teagan grow into a special young man.

Email Nadine McDonald to learn more about Teagan

Mahki

Mahki, born in 2008, is looking for a family in Connecticut where he’ll learn what it's like to be loved and wanted. He’s a friendly young man who is respectful and enjoys being with others. He is smart and creative and likes to put things together. He also enjoys caring for hermit crabs, riding his scooter, playing video games, and reading. Because of his family history, Mahki needs a patient and supportive family while he heals from past experiences and rebuilds trust. We hope you’ll help him grow into a healthy and happy young adult with a family he belongs to.

Email Nadine McDonald to learn more about Mahki

David

David is a funny, playful, and kind teen. Born in 2010, he enjoys receiving someone’s full attention, spending time outdoors, riding his bicycle, playing basketball, listening to music, and much more. He likes to use his tablet and skillfully navigates electronics. David has developed exceptional hearing and tactile skills. He’s passionate about learning and curious about the world. With continued support and understanding, he has a bright future ahead. His strengths and talents can shine brightly and inspire others. David longs to be part of a family that will make him feel safe, guided, and loved.

Contact Tyler Mann to learn more about David

“Yolanda”*

Yolanda is a lovable and bubbly girl born in 2016. She enjoys Legos, Crocs, shopping… and purple! Yolanda excels at the school she moved to last year. She’s bright and has a great imagination. She has amazing insight and self-reflection for such a young child. Her adoptive family and professionals will provide the support she needs to heal, grow, and thrive. Yolanda needs parents she can rely on who are patient, consistent, and provide structure. She wants a family where she can feel safe and loved. Yolanda has a younger sister and a grandmother who will remain an important part of her life.

Email Holly Nesdale to learn more about Yolanda

Sa’Niyah

Meet Sa'Niyah! This kind and helpful kid, born in 2014, loves reading, journaling, playing games, ballet, gymnastics, and animals. She enjoys stress toys, including poppets. Squishy toys are her favorite! She needs adults who provide patience and consistency. She flourishes with praise and positive reinforcement. Sa'Niyah will continue to receive supports to help her trust and rely on adult caregivers. She’ll do best in a family where she can have space and attention to continue making progress toward her goals.

Email Sandy Carroll to learn more about Sa’Niyah

Nova

We’re looking for a special family for Nova, a sweet child born in 2022. Her smile is contagious and lights up a room! She likes dogs, listening to music, and visually stimulating toys. She loves dolls and kisses them. She also enjoys the outdoors with the assistance of adaptive equipment. She’s non-verbal but responds with a smile and makes sounds when spoken to. Her adoptive parents will regularly attend medical appointments and have providers visit their home. Nova needs and deserves a forever home that will love and care for her.

Email Bryan Lerch to learn more about Nova

Carlos

My name is Carlos. I’m a teenager, born in 2009, who loves playing board games and being outside playing basketball. I even make my own board games! At school I enjoy all my classes and just joined the drama club, which is very fun. I love playing video games like Minecraft and Roblox. I'm excited to have a family to call my own! I can't wait to learn how to cook with a new family and do fun activities with them. I would love to be with a family that is kind and understanding and will help me feel like I belong. (Carlos is an energetic and silly kid who thrives in structured environments and loves helping others. He’s very insightful and always wants to do his best.).

Email Bryan Lerch to learn more about Carlos

Anthony

Anthony is caring, considerate, and insightful. Born in 2010, he likes to learn, explore, and help others in any way he can. Anthony would love to have a mom and a dad in a home with pets (or willing to get them). He’d like a family that will be involved in his life and go hiking and biking with him or support those activities. He enjoys soccer and karate. He’d like a dad who wants to play video games with him. Anthony participates in a Police Explorers program and would like to become a police officer to “help kids just like me." Anthony is willing to consider moving out of state and would be happy with a sibling or being an only child. He’s excited to find a family where he can grow up and be loved.

Email Adam Liebowitz to learn more about Anthony

Jadielys

Connecticut families only. Jadi is an outgoing, funny, optimistic, and insightful girl born in 2014. She enjoys group activities and playing sports. Her creativity shines through in her artwork and may make her a great actress, too! Staff at Jadi's school say she’s enthusiastic and has a lot of potential. She enjoys playing with others and, in 2024, received an award for being a model peer student. Jadi works closely with supports to make sure all her needs are met. She wants a permanent family that loves the changing seasons and celebrates holidays. While Jadi cannot live with her older brother, she is very connected to him and looks forward to spending time with him and his adoptive family.

Email Denise Lopez to learn more about Jadi

“Adam”*

Connecticut families only. Adam, who was born in 2010, is funny and sociable. He is kind, loyal, and forgiving. Adam enjoys building with Legos, drawing, playing video games, and watching television. He has played on recreational football and wrestling teams and likes being active. Adam receives support in school and developed an interest in art that has grown into a talent. He looks forward to meeting new people and forming healthy friendships. Adam will benefit from a positive adult who is patient and will remind him of his many strengths. Once he feels secure, Adam's bright and wonderful personality shines through.

Email Nadine McDonald to ask about Adam

“Brian”*

Connecticut families only. Brian, born in 2009, is ready to join a family willing to learn about his needs. With supports, consistency, and structure, Brian has made great strides interacting socially and identifying his feelings. He enjoys attending school and his teachers are proud of the effort he puts in each day. Brian receives additional support to help him complete his work and he’s improving his self-help skills and independence. He has a great sense of humor and makes his classmates and teachers laugh each day! He enjoys coloring, crafts, and watching movies and cartoons. Brian gets to spend time with some extended family members who can’t care for him full-time. They’re a positive part of his life and will be a support for the family he joins.

Email Sandy Carroll to learn more about Brian

“Drew”*

We’re looking for a special family in the Norwich/New London area for Drew. He has a special relationship with relatives who love him and will remain part of his life. Drew was born in 2008. He’s a big teddy bear. He’s kind and thoughtful and would love to listen to music, watch videos, and enjoy meals with you. He will write things down when you have difficulty understanding him. He has a special environment at school to help him meet his education goals. You can help provide the consistency he needs for success. Drew may do best in a family where he’s the youngest child. He will thrive in a family where he feels connected and secure and knows he’s a permanent member.

Email Denise Lopez to learn more about Drew

“Johnny”*

Johnny was born in 2006 and needs a family that will meet his needs. They’ll get special training and supports and have flexible schedules that accommodate visiting providers. He enjoys watching TV, playing with toy balls and sensory toys, and building with blocks. Johnny has a sweet and inquisitive disposition; he is eager to explore things around him. Although non-verbal, he uses noises to make his needs known. Johnny is doing well in school and making progress toward his learning goals. He needs an organized and patient family where he can have meaningful, trusting relationships.

Email Sandy Carroll to learn more about Johnny

“Bobby”*

Bobby is joyful and easygoing. Born in 2016, is ready to join a family able to meet his needs. He enjoys watching television – especially cartoons – and soothes himself with soft things such as blankets. He loves choosing books and being read to! Bobby enjoys school, where he receives additional services. He loves playing in the ball pit and has fun scooting around independently and playing with toys. Bobby will require care from loving adults for his lifetime. He deserves a family to care for him while making memories together. If you’re that family, you’ll receive training and supports for his needs.

Email Sandy Carroll to learn more about Bobby

"Zander"

Zander is an adorable boy who was born in 2024. Zander is not his real name due to confidentiality, but he is a unique and special child in need of a family who is willing to soothe him, comfort him, and be educated to care for his needs. This sweet boy will continue to receive services by a host of providers, and he will be followed and closely monitored by professionals to ensure he maintains his optimum health and nutrition. Of equal importance, Zander truly needs to be with a family where he is read to, cuddled, and allowed to blossom to the best of his abilities! Caring for him will bring joys to a family's life and this deserving little guy will benefit greatly from being in an atmosphere where he can grow, learn, and be loved!

Email Mary Olmeda to learn more about "Zander"

Devin

A truly special family is being sought for a teenager named Devin, born in 2008. Devin is fondly referred to as a "big teddy bear," as he has a sweet, innocent disposition and he desires to feel loved and secure within a family. Some things Devin would love to do with his family include listening to music, watching YouTube videos and sharing meals. He loves all types of food! Devin can keep himself occupied for long periods of time and although it may be difficult at times to understand him, verbally, he is patient and will communicate his needs by writing things down. Devin is adored by his teachers and school staff. Solid communication between Devin's school and home provides the structure and consistency he needs for ultimate success. Devin has a special relationship with some relatives who love him very much and would like to remain a part of his life. Devin's most immediate need, right now, is stability with a patient family! He may do best in a family where he is the youngest child, and he will thrive within a family where he feels connected and secure and understands he does not need to move to any other home.

Email Denise Lopez to learn more about Devin

"Sally"

A special foster family is needed for Sally, a little girl born in 2015. Due to confidentiality reasons, Sally is not this child's true name. Sally is a sweet girl, who wears adorable, purple glasses that she picked out, herself! Sally is outgoing and friendly; those who know her note that she makes friends easily and she loves playing with kittens. She also loves trying new foods! Sally will thrive in a family who can provide her with a structured and predictable setting, while also exuding love and commitment to her. Sally participates in services which will be important to continue, and the ongoing support will prove to be a key to the success of Sally joining a family. Sally utilizes supports in school to help her reach her goals. Her teachers stated that she has been an advocate for herself, and she has recently begun violin lessons which she is enjoying. Sally has relationships with extended family members, which help with her feelings of connectedness; therefore, a family who resides in CT is currently being sought. Sally has the resiliency to thrive, and she would love to grow up in a family who loves to snuggle and hug as much as she does.

Email Sandra Carroll to learn more about "Sally"

Kaiden

Born in 2017 Kaiden needs a family who will love him unconditionally. A family willing to learn about Kaiden's needs will be rewarded with lots of hugs, kisses and "I love you's!" This happy and energetic, little boy has many endearing qualities; to know him is to love him! Kaiden has several specialized needs, but he doesn’t let any of them stop him. As a baby, his doctors said that he would most likely never walk or talk, and he proves them wrong every day. He is walking on his own, and his vocabulary is expanding, daily. Kaiden is a bright and loving, little boy, and he brings a smile to the face of everyone he meets. Kaiden is in elementary school where he receives services for additional support. His teachers and the school nurse report that he is making exceptional progress towards all his goals, and he is a classroom favorite with both adults and his peers; Kaiden always has a classmate wanting to volunteer to walk with him down the hallway or play with him at recess. Kaiden is followed closely by several providers to ensure he maintains optimum health. Although incredibly loved and supported by his foster family, they are not able to adopt him, but would like to remain involved in his life.

Email Bryan Lerch to learn more about Kaiden

Mariselly

This beautiful teen would like to grow up and work with children in the future, can you help her reach her goals? Mariselly was born in 2009, and she is described to be sweet, polite, and caring. Mariselly is young at heart, and she loves to spend her time doing arts and crafts. Mariselly has faced many challenges in her young life and her resiliency is evident in her desire to belong to a family. Being connected to supports will help both Mariselly and her family be successful. Mariselly has been able to take pride in her grades and she receives additional supports in school. Her teachers have noted that she is kind, respectful to both staff and peers, and she is flexible, understanding, and polite. Her teachers also mentioned that she is a role model in her baking class, and she enjoys not only baking, but willingly doing the tasks most others don't want to do! This young lady is hopeful there is a family out there willing to open their hearts and their home to her, and to get to know what an awesome & wonderful family member she can become.

Email Sandra Carroll to learn more about Mariselly

Evelyse

This very active, charming, and engaging girl is hoping to find a family with whom she can share her love of music, movies, reading and animals. Keeping busy with creative activities makes Evelyse happy. Her chatty nature, along with a vivid personality, makes her fun to be around. Evelyse was born in 2013, and she is currently in middle school. With supports in place, she has the capacity to do well. Around the home, Evelyse likes to be a helper. She enjoys being outside, helping with yard work; especially planting flowers. She loves any type of family activity, such as going to the library or out to eat. Evelyse continues to work on healing from past experiences, and she does best when she has the sole focus of adults, and she could benefit from the positive role modeling of an older child. Evelyse thrives with positive relationships and the trust that she's able to build with her caretaker. If you feel that your family would like to help Evelyse grow and thrive, please reach out for more information about this wonderful girl!

Email Denise Lopez to learn more about Evelyse

Cole

Born in 2006, Cole is a resilient youth who needs a family capable of meeting his needs. This handsome, young man has dark hair and a smile which envelops his whole face. Despite being non-verbal, Cole communicates excitement with his bright eyes, facial expressions, and body motions. Cole completed the 12th grade where he receives special services, and he is participating in a 5th year. His teacher reports he is making good progress with all his goals, and he enjoys social interaction with his friends. Listening to music and toys that make noise bring joy to Cole's daily life. He loves doing arts and crafts; painting is his favorite activity! Cole, also, enjoys going on outings and into the community to participate in activities. Given his specialized needs, Cole is reliant on adaptive equipment, and he will be closely followed by many professionals, both in and out of the home, to ensure he maintains his optimum health. Although Cole will be dependent on others for the rest of his life, what he really needs is a family he can depend on. Cole has demonstrated the ability to form positive relationships, and he needs a forever family to further develop long-term connections.

Email Sandra Carroll to learn more about Cole

"Javon"

Javon is a sweet and energetic boy, born in 2020. Due to the legality of the case, Javon is not his real name. Javon is non-verbal but he has recently started to try to say a few words. Sometimes Javon can demonstrate high energy, but he can also be reserved. Javon sleeps through the night, gets up and ready in the morning with ease, and practices good self-care. Javon attends a half day, school program with supports as well as a half day, daycare program. He has learned the routines of the classroom, plays with friends at school, and he has made great strides since he first began. Javon loves his iPad and uses this throughout his day at home and school. He, also, loves puzzles, games, and "baby shark." When he finds a toy he likes, he will keep this toy with him. Javon loves macaroni and cheese, and snacks such as veggie sticks and chips; he will bring to you what he likes. Javon has been through a great deal of trauma in his short life with multiple caregivers. He is seeking a loving and nurturing family who will be able to provide him with structure and routine, and who is willing to work with service providers to advance his developmental needs. Javon will hug and kiss you right back. Javon has siblings and extended family, and it will be important for him to have contact and an ongoing relationship.

Email Holly Nesdale at to learn more about "Javon"

"Nathan"

Nathan is a healthy, personable, young man who was born in 2008. Nathan is best described as a kind, empathetic teen who is always a good friend. He is often seen sticking up for his friends and cracking jokes around the halls at his school! Nathan, also, is a star of the daily morning news, giving the school an update on the day as well as a funny joke. He has his entire class and, at times, all the viewers of the news laughing. He is well liked by all staff and peers, and he is a straight "A" student and excels with expectations. Nathan has been through significant trauma in the past, but he has used supports to work through his tough start at life. He is reflective and can discuss how he has grown as a young man. Nathan longs to be part of a family and he is looking forward to experiencing his high school years by hanging out with friends and playing video games with friends and family. Nathan loves all things Anime, Nintendo and Pokémon, and he loves to listen to music on his mp3 player. His favorite subjects at school are art and cooking but he also enjoys the technology department, and he has designed fidget toys that are created with a 3d printer. Additionally, Nathan is part of the school-work program, where he serves lunch to children with developmental disabilities. Nathan would do best with a family who provides him with structure, shows him love and acceptance, and is able to effectively communicate. He will thrive in an environment that is calm, and it will be helpful for him to have a family who is able to teach him the routine and expectations for his day-to-day activities.

Email Sandy Carroll to learn more about "Nathan"

"Mia, Jason and Amy"

Mia, Jason, and Amy have a deep and abiding love for one another. They are seeking a family ready and willing to welcome all of them into their home and hearts. Due to confidentiality reasons, their names have been changed. Mia was born in 2009, and she is the oldest of the siblings. Mia enjoys graphic design and photography, and she is very interested in attending cosmetology school in the future. Mia takes pride in her appearance, and she enjoys getting her nails done and dressing on trend. Jason was born in 2012. Jason has a good sense of humor, and he is kind and compassionate, especially with his younger sister. Jason has an interest in video games and animals, particularly exotic animals. Jason does well in school, and he has a special interest in science. The youngest of this sibling group is Amy, who was born in 2017. Amy is a feisty, fun loving, and playful young girl. She has a good sense of humor and is socially smart for her age. Amy is very artistic, likes animals, and she does well, socially and emotionally in school; she receives some additional assistance, academically. This sibling group has a very strong and loving relationship with one another, as well as important biological relationships. They are looking for an adoptive family who has love to share, and who can ensure they never have to lose one another, again. The children would do best in a structured family environment, and it will be important for a family to work with supports to help them understand their past and look forward to very bright futures. These children have triple the love to share with any lucky family.

Email Holly Nesdale to learn more about Mia, Jason, and Amy

Xavier

Xavier was born in 2011, and he is a very sweet, young man who is polite, kind, and likes to be a helper. Xavier likes to play sports, and he has been on sports teams in the past. He, also, enjoys board games, video games, and likes diamond art projects. Xavier gets along well with peers, as well as adults, and he genuinely cares and enjoys when he succeeds. He has been described as, curious, enthusiastic, empathetic, and eager to learn new things. Xavier does very well academically in school and with the love and support of a forever family, he has the potential to go to college and succeed! He dreams of being a construction worker. Xavier has experienced trauma from a young age, and through it all, he has remained resilient and loving to those with whom he is able to bond and build trust. Xavier will do best with a family who can understand his trauma and grief and how it affects him. Xavier would flourish with older siblings, and he loves dogs. His forever family will need to be one who is patient and understanding and willing to love Xavier, unconditionally.

Email Bryan Lerch to learn more about Xavier

"Alex"

Alex is a sweet, young boy born in 2013. He is described as a "little gentleman." Alex loves to dress up in costumes, especially as Marvel characters. He is interested in marine life, specifically sharks. Alex enjoys playing with Legos, as well as playing basketball and football. His favorite holiday is Christmas, and he loves the holiday time of year. Alex has faced many challenges in his young life, including multiple caregivers, and his resilience is evident in his desire to be part of a family. Alex has been able to maintain his current placement for two years despite the challenges, but the family is unable to commit to being a long-term resource. He is working on his struggles and has made progress with identifying his triggers. Alex is working with service providers to address his trauma and needs a family who is willing to also work with services for his optimum success. Alex is looking for a family who is patient, loving and can provide a structured, but nurturing home environment. Alex would like to maintain contact with some of his biological relatives, particularly his grandmother. A family who supports his connections is desired.

If you are interested in learning more about "Alex," please contact Holly Nesdale at: holly.nesdale@ct.gov

Danny

Danny was born in 2011. Danny enjoys playing video games, watching YouTube videos, listening to music, playing with his peers, and he loves playing basketball. Danny has a great sense of humor and a great smile. Danny is actively involved in church, and he enjoys being part of the youth-group. Danny easily engages with others, including meeting new people and making friends. He receives extra help at school to support his needs which allows him to maintain good grades. Danny, also, receives extra support outside the home, and he can respond well and process situations while taking some accountability. As Danny needs to heal from his past traumas and disappointments, he thrives on structure and follow through by the adults in his life. He likes to feel heard when he has a thought or idea, and he longs to be part of a forever family who will continue to support and encourage him. Danny will do well with a family who is willing to be patient and allow him time to build a trusting relationship. Danny would also enjoy a family who can support him in extracurricular activities/sports, and he would enjoy a home with children his approximate age with shared interests. Danny would benefit from having someone he could look to as a "father figure," as well as a family who was open to maintaining some contact with his siblings, who have been adopted.

If you are interested in learning more about Danny, please contact Bryan Lerch at: bryan.lerch@ct.gov

Photographs by Patty Swanson

Patty is a Certified Professional Photographer. She has received the 2017 CTPPA Award of Excellence, 2015 March of Dimes' Mission Triangle Award, and the 2012 and 2013 Connecticut Photographer of the Year awards in Creative and Art/Electronic Imaging.