Wednesday's Child Azzie Enjoys Dream Shopping Day

16-year-old foster youth Azzie has a special day of pampering and hope for a forever family

Apr. 15, 2026 at 10:49pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extremely abstracted, out-of-focus photograph in soft pools of warm color and light, hinting at the lifestyle items and accessories of a teenage girl, conveying a sense of dreaminess and optimism.A special shopping day filled with joy and hope for a foster youth searching for a forever family.Frisco Today

Azzie, a vibrant 16-year-old in foster care for four years, enjoyed an unforgettable shopping spree at Stonebriar Centre in Frisco, Texas, filled with new outfits, treats, and the chance to feel special and loved, as she continues to hope for a forever family.

Why it matters

The story highlights the experiences of youth in the foster care system, who often miss out on the simple joys of childhood, and the importance of providing them with positive experiences and support as they search for permanent homes and families.

The details

Azzie, whose nickname is "Azzie", is a confident, funny, and big-hearted teen who has been in foster care for four years. During her special shopping day, she enjoyed lunch at Chick-fil-A, got her favorite drinks at Starbucks, and went on a shopping spree at Macy's where she met personal shoppers, tried on new looks, and found comfortable sneakers. Azzie loves fashion, makeup, scary movies, and video games, but she also has a passion for biology and wants to be a NICU nurse when she's older.

  • Azzie has been in foster care for four years.

The players

Azrael (Azzie)

A 16-year-old vibrant and confident teen who has been in foster care for four years and is hoping to find a forever family.

Heart Gallery of North Texas

An organization that helps connect foster youth with potential adoptive families.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Today has been amazing!”

— Azzie

“At first, I felt nervous and excited. I'm so happy to be here.”

— Azzie

“They made me feel so happy and loved and special.”

— Azzie

“Oh, these are so comfortable... I'm never going back to heels again!”

— Azzie

“I love fashion... yes, I'm a girlie girl.”

— Azzie

What’s next

For more information about Azrael (Azzie), please contact the Heart Gallery of North Texas at hello@heartgallerynorthtexas.org. Don't forget to include Azrael's name in the subject line or call 817-809-3440.

The takeaway

Azzie's special shopping day highlights the importance of providing positive experiences and support for youth in the foster care system as they search for permanent homes and families. Her story reminds us that every child deserves not just a special day, but a place to belong.