Made To Celebrate! a program bringing smiles to children in foster and kinship care on their birthdays.
Children in care can experience significant challenges and disruptions in their lives, including feelings of loss, uncertainty, and isolation. Birthdays, which are typically joyful milestones, can sometimes become painful reminders of separation from biological families bringing on symptoms of grief.
Made to Celebrate! is a program dedicated to ensuring that children in foster or kinship care, within our service area, are celebrated on their special day. Each child will receive happy mail of a specially curated package filled with things from their birthday wish list, giving them voice and choice.
Inspired by Psalm 118:24, this initiative aims to create positive core memories, enhance self-worth, and show a child that regardless of their circumstances, they are loved and were indeed made to be celebrated!
Program Details
Timeframe
The Resource Parent/Guardian or Caseworker must complete and submit the application at least one month prior to the child’s birthday. Each birthday package is assembled based on each child’s wishlist so the more time to customize the package, the better. The child’s package will be delivered to their current foster or kinship home in time for their special day.
Eligibility
The Child MUST currently be in foster care or kinship care and reside within our service area (Tioga, Bradford, Lycoming, Clinton, Union, Snyder, Montour, Columbia, Northumberland Counties). The intake form must be completed by either the child’s caregiver or caseworker. If you are outside of the service area but are currently connected with Dwell, please complete the application form for review.
Information Collected
Our registration form asks for general guardian, caseworker information. We request recipient information including child’s name, date of birth, age and gender. We ask that you do your best in providing a wish list including information on up to 5 items the child would like for their birthday. If clothing or shoes, specify the brands, sizes, and color preference. A brief description of the child’s personality, talents and interests is helpful.
Why It Matters
For children in care, birthdays don’t always feel like celebrations. Many are navigating new homes, new schools, and big emotions like loss and uncertainty. Our birthday program reminds them that they are seen, valued, and worth celebrating. A thoughtful gift and a moment focused just on them can bring comfort, joy, and a sense of belonging when they need it most.
How you can support Made to Celebrate!
