It is heartbreaking that there are 100 children waiting for foster care placements in Chautauqua County, with the need especially great for teenagers and children with special needs.

The statistic is staggering and, at the same time, incapable of adequately expressing the depths of the situation.

Each of these 100 children is dealing with a home life that no child should have to bear. Some come from homes where they have been abused. Some come from homes where drug abuse is rampant. Too many, we’re sure, come from homes where there isn’t enough food on the table and barely a roof over their head.

No child should have to live this way.

Unlike some other problems that require millions of dollars or changes to state law to remedy, Chautauqua County residents can solve this problem ourselves. As sad as it is that there are children waiting for a better life, the other side of that coin there is an opportunity for your family to be a blessing to a child. All that is needed is foster parents with a home to share, the patience to deal with challenging situations that will arise and, most importantly, love to give a child who surely could use some right about now.

If you fit that description, make your way to the Cassadaga Community Center, 25 Maple Ave., Cassadaga, tonight for an open house and orientation on the county’s foster care program. Those unable to attend but who are interested can call the county Department of Health and Human Services at 661-8051 or 363-3570 or visit co.chautauqua.ny.us/fosterparents.

It would give us no greater pleasure than to report there are no longer children waiting for a foster home. Come on, Chautauqua County, let’s tackle this problem. We know we can.