
Birthday Buddies
Ensuring that children in foster care feel seen, loved, and remembered on their special day — because no birthday should ever feel forgotten.


Help us Celebrate a Child's birthday
Celebrate a child’s special day through our Birthday Buddies program! Every child in custody receives a birthday card and a $25 gift card on their birthday, bringing a little joy and recognition to their day.
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🎉 Make a child’s birthday brighter –

Because Every Child Matters
Every child deserves to feel celebrated on their birthday—but for many in custody, birthdays often pass by unnoticed. No cake, no gifts, no balloons. Just another day.
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One young man, “Timmy,” had never celebrated a birthday in his life. On the day of his 16th birthday, Timmy would come` in for a meeting with his caseworker and foster parent. When asked about it, his quiet reply was, ‘It’s just another day.’” When Project KARE heard this, we knew we had to change that. We surprised Timmy with a cake, balloons, a gift, and even gift cards donated by staff. The joy on his face reminded everyone that the simple act of being celebrated can mean the world.
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That’s why Project KARE makes sure every child in Stark County’s custody receives a personalized card and gift on their birthday. Because no child should ever feel forgotten—and every child deserves a moment that says, “You matter.”

