Our Story

How It Started

In the fall of 2002, a five-year-old boy living at the Second Step Shelter in Newton, MA was about to have his birthday, but neither his mother nor the shelter could afford to celebrate. Three friends organized a small party so he could feel the joy, recognition, and love every child deserves on their special day.

That simple act of kindness planted the seed for Birthday Wishes.

A National First

Birthday Wishes was the first organization in the United States dedicated to celebrating the birthdays of children experiencing homelessness. From the beginning, our mission has been clear: every child should be seen, valued, and celebrated, no matter their circumstances.

Growth and Scalability

What began as one party has grown into a scalable model that now reaches children across New England, Long Island, and beyond. Today, we partner with more than 200 shelters and transitional living programs, with more than 500 volunteers annually making celebrations possible. Each year, over 6,000 children experience a Birthday Wishes party filled with cake, gifts, decorations, and the lasting reminder that they matter.

A Movement of Joy

Research and family stories confirm what we see every day: birthdays help restore a sense of normalcy, build self-esteem, and bring light into children’s lives during difficult times. From a single celebration in Newton to thousands of birthdays across multiple states, Birthday Wishes has grown into a movement of joy, dignity, and hope.