Staff Report
Every child loves to feel special on their birthday. Box of Balloons is a non-profit organization on a mission to make each birthday happy and every child celebrated. According to Samantha Benoit, leader for the Tampa chapter, “We impact the people we serve by bringing joy into their lives by providing birthday parties to children who might not otherwise get one.“
In America, 22% of children live below the poverty level, and Benoit believes that a birthday celebration can give families the hope and joy they may be missing on their child’s special day.
The focus of the organization is to ensure each child feels special and celebrated on their birthday and bring joy into the lives of them and their support system.
Benoit said that it also aims to empower parents and caregivers by delivering a birthday box to them with all the necessities for a fantastic party.
Box of Balloons is a registered 501(c)(3) organization that reaches out to local school social workers, community leaders and organizations to identify children in need.
Social workers and organizational leaders send in requests on behalf of these children. “We then reach out to local community volunteers to donate all the items/money needed to complete the birthday request in order for a child to have an awesome birthday party like many of his or her friends,” noted Benoit.
Each Birthday Box is filled with a standard checklist of items, relating to the theme of the child’s choice including tableware: paper plates, napkins, cups, decorations: streamers, balloons, curling ribbon, tape, DIY decorations: themed decor, banner, etc., party favors for six children, game or activity and all supplies needed, cupcakes, and a birthday gift. Each box costs roughly $100 to fill.
There are several ways to get involved. You can Pledge your Birthday, Build-A-Box, Volunteer for a chapter, Start a chapter, or simply donate. Visit www.boxofballoons.org. To donate items locally, call 802-8331.
