Hanna is 11 years old, and by every account she is the kind of kid who notices things — the shape of a shell, the sound of waves, the small win a classmate just had on a group project. She is still waiting for a family to notice her back, as the latest subject of The Boston Globe's Sunday's Child column, which features children in Massachusetts foster care who are awaiting adoption.
According to The Boston Globe, Hanna is described as an enthusiastic and happy 11-year-old with a natural appreciation for the world around her. The profile says she finds a lot of joy in spending time outdoors, and that the beach is a particular favorite — she enjoys exploring, taking in the scenery, and collecting seashells along the shore.
A Kid Who Shows Up for Others
The Globe's profile describes Hanna as caring and eager to help others, someone who enjoys being involved in group projects and events and takes real pride in contributing to them. She is motivated by encouragement, the paper reports, and does her best work when she is given opportunities to participate rather than sit on the sidelines.
Encouragement and opportunities to try new things are important parts of Hanna's portrait.
Who Can Adopt, and What It Takes
Sunday's Child profiles are paired with general guidance on the mechanics of adopting from foster care in Massachusetts, and the requirements are broader than many people assume. Prospective parents can learn more about the process through state resources.
Prospective parents can visit the state's Adopt from DCF page.
Part of a Larger, Slower System
Hanna's case sits inside a foster-care system where permanency can take a long time. A Massachusetts Legislature report notes that in FY2023, the median time to adoption statewide was 40.4 months — well above the 24-month benchmark set by the federal government — and that 37% of children in care had been there more than 24 months regardless of their permanency goal, according to the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families Annual Report.
Hanna isn't the only Massachusetts child profiled in recent weeks. The Globe's Sunday's Child column also featured Mariyah, a 14-year-old described as having positive energy, alongside the same general guidance on age, family status, fees, and the adoption process. Families can also visit the MARE Child Gallery.
