Birthdays For All was inspired by a series of articles from the Post and Courier about the state of foster care in South Carolina. It’s an honor to have Steffi interviewed in a recent article, but unfortunately, the story isn’t a happy one. Between 2012 and 2018, the number of children entering the Department of Social Services system increased from 3,100 to 4,600, according to data published by the Chronicle of Social Change.
The articles in 2015 told the story of the lack of foster parents that have led to more children being kept in group homes across the state. In 3 years, the situation has gotten worse, with more kids needing homes, but still not enough foster families to take them.
These kids often arrive at the group homes in bad circumstances, with no time to gather their belongings. The resources available are limited, which means they don’t get enough individual attention to celebrate a birthday. It’s our mission to make sure every child gets to celebrate their birthday.
We know that the problem won’t be solved overnight. But the simple joy of feeling special on your birthday is something we’ve been able to provide to more and more children who need it each year.
We are thankful that we’ve had the support of so many people in the local Charleston community to help us achieve this. People at organizations such as Carolina Ice Palace, Massage Envy in Mt Pleasant, Footlight Players, Little Gym of West Ashley, Ohm Radio and 82 Queen, to name a few, have done amazing things to support our cause.
Please donate help us continue our growth to provide more birthday presents to more children.