As children, birthday parties are memorable occasions! But when families barely have enough to support basic needs, birthday celebrations are often a luxury they can’t afford.
27 Feb, 2020
On the surface, birthday parties are all fun and games, but they are also an effective way to build up a child’s self-esteem and confidence. Celebrating a child’s birthday reminds them they are loved and valuable!
All over the world, Compassion centres celebrate children with monthly birthday parties. Thanks to the generosity of their sponsors, some children get to celebrate their birthdays in an extra special way.
Dominican Republic
Lorielky grew up celebrating her birthday with a wish and song from her parents and siblings, but this year, she got to host her very own party, thanks to the generosity of her sponsor!
“If Lorielky’s sponsors had not sent us these gifts, we would not have been able to celebrate the life of our beloved daughter and make her happy,” says her mother, Delmi. “Lorielky loves her sponsors so much, and so do we.”
Uganda
For children living in poverty, their first birthday is an important milestone!
In Uganda, staff from our Mums and Babies survival project take special care to celebrate first birthdays with lots of cake and snacks.
Colombia
In Latin America, turning 15 signifies the transition from childhood into adulthood. This special birthday is typically commemorated by a celebration known as a “quinceañera”.
Although her family couldn’t throw Lesly her own party, the local Compassion staff knew how important this was to her, and decided to throw a quinceañera for her and two of her peers!
Indonesia
This year, eight-year-old Aurel and Hansen had the joy of celebrating their birthdays for the first time, with a special celebration and gift from their local Compassion centre!
“All the prayers and wishes from tutors and friends are the best gift to a birthday child,” says Device, one of the teachers at the centre.
Kenya
At this Compassion centre in Kenya, staff work hard to make sure every child’s birthday is celebrated.
This party was thrown last year, to celebrate children with birthdays in November and December.
Did you know that you can purchase a birthday gift for your sponsored child? Click here to find out how.
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Words by Claire Ince
Photos by Isaac Oglia, Vera Aurima, Helen Manson, Yrahisa Mateo and Lina Marcela Alarcón Molina
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