Joy in July is a special summer initiative from Birthday Wishes that brings dignity, empowerment, and celebration to teens experiencing homelessness. Many teens in shelters have never had a real birthday celebration—let alone the chance to choose a gift that reflects their personality and dreams. We’re changing that.

Our Goal:

To collect 1,000 $25 gift cards (Amazon, Walmart, or Target) that will be included in each Teen Birthday-in-a-Box. Every card helps a teen feel seen, celebrated, and in control of their own joy.

Why Gift Cards?

Gift cards offer teens the power of choice—a meaningful act for youth facing instability. Whether it’s a book, headphones, self-care items, or clothes, these cards allow teens to pick something that matters to them.

 

Donate $25 Gift Cards (For Individuals & Families)

Make a monetary donation for Joy in July gift cards.

Host a Virtual Giving Tree (For Individuals, Families, or Companies)

Create a digital Joy in July Giving Tree fundraiser using our GiveSmart tool to ask friends, relatives, employees, and colleagues to make a donation for gift cards.

Individuals & Families, organize a gift card drive in your neighborhood. Get kids involved with a lemonade stand or bake sale to raise funds to purchase gift cards.

Companies, invite employees to make a donation. Match their donations to increase your impact.

Order Giving Tree Kit (For Companies)

Order a Joy in July Giving Tree and host a physical gift card fundraiser in your office.

With this $250 donation, Birthday Wishes will provide a small white, pink, or blue two-foot tinsel tree, for the physical gift cards you collect, and a QR code to support your virtual tree.

  • Invite employees to donate gift cards as a team-building or CSR activity.

  • Match employee donations to increase your impact.

You will need to arrange for pick-up at our new office. 

Donate or Host a Giving Tree fundraiser Today!

It’s easy to join the joy. Whether you’re donating one gift card or helping us collect hundreds, every act of kindness helps a teen feel celebrated on their birthday.

Let’s show teens experiencing homelessness that their birthday matters—and that their future does too.