Behind every cake is a story: a story of a youth pulled from their family and placed in foster care, a youth living in their car or a shelter, a teen recovering from human trafficking, a youth who has been ignored, overlooked, forgotten. Yes, there are nonprofits providing critical housing, food, and safety resources, but securing these needs focuses on survival. They do not build self-esteem. They do not build community. They do not show compassion.
Through the simple gift of a cake, batch of cupcakes, or box of cookies, we are showing every youth they matter. Their stories remind us of the importance of kindness and acknowledgement, even when it’s from a stranger.
Making A Lasting Imprint
Your thoughtfulness and talent truly made a world of difference for Melanie and brought so much joy to her birthday celebration. The cake was not only beautifully crafted, but also filled with love and warmth, evident in every delicious bite. Her eyes sparkled with excitement when she saw the cake, and her joy was infectious. It was a moment that I will cherish forever, and it would not have been possible without your dedication and selflessness. Your willingness to volunteer your time and talent to bring happiness to others is truly inspiring. In a world where acts of kindness often go unnoticed, your gesture serves as a reminder of the goodness and generosity that exist within our community. On behalf of Melanie, please accept my heartfelt thanks. Your kindness touched her heart in ways words cannot express. We are incredibly grateful for everything you and other Cake4Kids bakers do.
-Caseworker for youth
Her Joy Was Infectious
“I enjoyed my cake and it was a 11/10. Birthdays are bittersweet for me ever since I was younger and when I received this cake as a surprise from my team I began to cry.
The cake was decorated with everything I like, and the cake tasted amazing. I am so thankful for people like you and thank you for making my birthday special again.”
-Adrian, cake recipient
Birthdays Were Bittersweet… Until Now
He was not going to have a party, cake, or anything. The family does not do anything special for birthdays, it is just another day. This youth was particularly excited because he was having the milestone birthday. The fact that anyone took the time to think about him was valuable and he felt cared about. He loved his cake!”
-Caseworker for youth
He Felt Cared For
“I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the incredibly kind gesture of baking a truck- shaped birthday cake for my son. Your act of generosity brought immense joy, and excitement to him, fulfilling a long-held wish of his. You made our whole family happy. It was a delightful surprise for us all, as he had been eagerly wishing for a truck cake since last year. Your unexpected kindness was like a ray of sunshine in our darkest days. The cake was not only fresh, beautiful, and delicious, but it also symbolized hope and kindness in a world that sometimes feels too harsh. Thank you for reminding us that there are still compassionate and caring individuals like you out there. Your gesture meant more to us than words can express. We are truly thankful for your thoughtfulness and generosity.”
-Child’s mom
A Ray of Sunshine in Our Darkest Days
For every youth we support, from coast to coast,
it’s so much more than just a cake.