Birthday Buddies Of Western New York Inc

As a retired teacher, Erin Grady wished to continue working with children as a way to give back to the community which is her home. She reached out to family and friends who encouraged her to pursue her vision. With the help of DeLynn Walker, her sister, Birthday Buddies of Western New York, Inc. was born!

This nonprofit project is a year long monthly birthday program for children in a residential shelter. It is designed to foster children’s self-esteem by providing a special day and recognizing that all children should have the simple joys of life and life’s rites of passage. This project provides an entire birthday celebration for children ages 1-18.

All residents of the shelter are invited to participate in the event. This includes a decorated party space, age appropriate games and activities, music and song, a specialized cake, a personalized birthday photograph, candid pictures throughout the event, and presents selected to fulfill the celebrant’s birthday wishes.

We believe that an investment in our most important resource – our children – the future of Buffalo and Western New York is essential.

Birthday Buddies of Western New York Inc

Mission and Purpose

Birthday Buddies of Western New York is a compassionate nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing joy and hope to homeless children through meaningful birthday celebrations. Their mission focuses on:

1. Providing comprehensive birthday experiences for children in shelters
2. Supporting families experiencing challenging circumstances
3. Creating memorable moments for children aged 1-18

Our Unique Approach: The Birthday Box

The organization's signature "Birthday Box" includes:

1. Wrapped gifts from the child's personal wish list
2. Books
3. New outfit and pajamas
4. Carefully themed and decorated packaging
5. A special "Buddy" stuffed animal

Community Impact

Since their founding in 2019, Birthday Buddies has:

1. Celebrated nearly over 200 birthdays
2. Worked with multiple women and children's shelters
3. Delivered personalized birthday experiences

Why Support Matters

Every donation helps provide:

1. Emotional support for children in difficult situations
2. A sense of self-worth and pride
3. Hope and happiness during challenging times

Making a Difference

By supporting Birthday Buddies of WNY, donors directly contribute to lifting up the spirits of children who are in circumstances over which they have no control. Donations help to create the type of magical birthday moments that all children deserve. In order to experience the positive impact that your donation can have, simply remember the faces of the children in your own life when they celebrated their birthday!