[StBernard] 'Heart Wall' encourages adoption of children in New Orleans area

[Westley Annis]

'Heart Wall' encourages adoption of children in New Orleans area

Melinda Morris, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune By  Melinda Morris, NOLA.com |
The Times-Picayune   
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on November 22, 2013 at 3:01 PM 


Photos of smiling, beautiful children adorn the new Heart Wall, a traveling
exhibit in the New Orleans area designed to promote adoption of children.
The exhibit was displayed today at a news conference in Gretna, presented by
CASA Jefferson as part of its weeklong celebration of National Adoption Day.

Teri Hrabovsky of Old Jefferson, who has fostered 40 children over six years
and adopted two with her husband, said that unfortunately, more people seem
to be tuned into the needs of adopting animals rather than children.

Cynthia Chauvin, executive director of CASA (Court Appointed Special
Advocates) Jefferson, said 68 children are awaiting adoption in Orleans,
Jefferson, St. Bernard and Plaquemines parishes.

Anna Palmer, director of Crossroads NOLA, a faith-based nonprofit group that
promotes adoption, presented the Heart Wall and discussed the importance of
the exhibit as putting names and faces to children waiting for permanent
homes.

Dwight Webster, pastor of Christian Unity Baptist Church, said he himself
was raised in a foster home by a couple who fostered 20 children altogether.
He went on to get a doctorate. Webster urged families to consider adoption
as a way to help children reach their full potential.

Hrabovsky is also president of NOLA Hope, a volunteer group that supports
foster families. the group collects gently used items for foster children.
To donate, call 504.957.9224 or email nolahope at cox.net.