New London should be proud of their student body, athletes, cheerleaders and their adult role models and coaches. On Feb. 11, during a basketball game the cheerleading team, student body and the basketball team partnered with Waterford Country School and the Department of Children and Families Foster Care programs to highlight the need for foster homes in New London. Little did anyone in the crowd know that there are 39 children from New London in foster care, yet only 12 homes in town. That disparity results in many children having to leave their community to live in foster care in other towns. The children who are in care are neighbors, friends, athletes, student leaders and classmates.

The cheerleaders and their coach took the lead in spreading the message during the game and football Coach Johnny Burns explained the need for more homes and he then led a spirited cheer about the need for families who have love, room and interest. A half-time presentation that had 39 students, who represented the children in care, stand at half court while 12 adults representing the foster families stood. The message and visual were clear − more homes needed. If anyone is interested please call 888-KID-HERO.

Pamela Kelley

Norwich