ST LOUIS MISSOURI NEWS (stlouismo.com) — Governor Matt Blunt today recognized Kansas City Royals’ catcher John Buck for his support and involvement in the Department of Social Services’ (DSS) Children’s Division’s Adoption Heart Gallery. The Heart Gallery features professional photographs of Missouri’s children awaiting adoption.
Governor Matt Blunt’s recognition of Mr. John Buck comes on the same day that he proclaimed May as Foster Care Appreciation Month. Mr. Buck visited the gallery today at Kansas City’s Crown Center.
“It is indeed an honor for us to have John Buck’s support for the Heart Gallery and we appreciate the attention his involvement will help bring to this important effort for Missouri children,” Governor Matt Blunt sad. “I am extremely grateful he has taken the time to spotlight the children in our state who are hoping to find the stability and support they need in a loving adoptive home.”
This year marks the third year the Heart Gallery has been in Missouri. In the first two years the gallery featured more than 330 children in 230 portraits resulting in more than 100 children being placed in adoptive homes. The 2008 Adoption Heart Gallery features 238 children in 185 portraits.
“Being a parent is an awesome responsibility,” Mr. Buck said. “My wife and I are expecting twins soon, and as we prepare for parenthood we are very aware of the children in the Heart Gallery who need caring adults in their lives. It is an honor to be recognized by Governor Matt Blunt and an additional honor if my support of the Gallery helps find the right homes for the children whose photographs are captured here.”
Governor Matt Blunt introduced the Heart Gallery to Missouri after he learned the state of New Mexico was using it as a method to find adoptive families. Blunt asked the Children’s Division to look into incorporating it into its recruitment activities. Governor Matt Blunt and First Lady Melanie Blunt have supported the Heart Gallery by opening the inaugural event in 2006 as well as hosting the gallery closing at the Capitol in 2007.
“One of the biggest challenges we face is that Missourians are unaware of the great need for adoptive homes for children right here in our state,” said Children’s Division Director Paula Neese. “Having Mr. Buck, who is respected and admired in the community, support these children and bring attention to the need for more adoptive homes is thrilling.”
The Children’s Division partners with the Adoption Exchange - Missouri to present the gallery which features photographs taken by professional photographers across the state who donate their time and talent. The Heart Gallery will be on display in 22 locations in 16 cities during this year’s tour of the state. For more information on the gallery and to view the tour schedule, log on to http://www.moheartgallery.org/.
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