New London resident honored by Patriots

Ciara Haines of New London was recently named the Difference Maker of the Week by the New England Patriots Foundation for her work with FRIENDS Way in Warwick, R.I. The award recognizes volunteers who go above and beyond in their New England communities, and this season’s honorees will be recognized during the Patriots’ game against the Miami Dolphins on Dec. 29.

FRIENDS Way is a family bereavement center that serves families throughout southeastern New England, offering groups and other support services for children ages 3-18 and their families after the death of a person important in their lives. Haines first went at age 5 after her father died, and she and her mother stayed involved as volunteers after they completed the program.

“FRIENDS Way was so incredibly helpful to me during a time when I never thought my world could be happy again,” she said in a release. “I knew as soon as I was old enough that I wanted to give back and help kids like me see that life can go on after loss, and it can be rewarding.”

Four years ago, Haines completed the FRIENDS Way training program and started a series of peer-based grief support groups for high schoolers, and she currently facilitates a group for ages 7-10.

“My volunteer work has become my greatest passion in life,” she said in the release. “There is nothing better than seeing the kids grow and help each other through their grief. I am so grateful to be a part of such an amazing organization.”

Friends and Neighbors is a regular feature in The Times. To submit, email times@theday.com.