Just as the Dorchester Eagles Pop Warner team boarded a bus and headed to Florida, Mayor Martin Walsh announced $16,000 in fundraising for the team thanks to local businesses and civic leaders.

Walsh has received $16,000 in pledges and commitments to help fund the costs of travel, lodging, and more, for the team from Celticare Health Plan, General Dynamics C4 Systems, Northwind Strategies, and Steward Health Care.

“Keeping kids active and engaged in programs like Pop Warner is a key piece to creating a foundation for success,” said Mayor Walsh. “They’re learning the value of hard work and discipline, and their accomplishments should be recognized and encouraged. I’m proud of these young athletes, and I encourage the entire Boston community to pledge their support too.”

Representing New England, the Eagles are competing in the national Pop Warner Football Championship in Orlando and hope to raise $44,000 to cover the cost of the trip, according to Eagles Coach Craig Carter.

"Our parents and kids are so thankful to the Mayor and our generous supporters for making this trip possible," Carter said. "Everyone in Dorchester [is] so proud of these kids it would've been such a shame to keep them home."

Those interested can donate to the team through their GoFundMe page or at the Members Plus Credit Union on Gallivan Boulevard.