(AUBURN) - A group of Auburn students is asking the community to help make sure every child gets a birthday celebration.
The Mayor's Youth Advisory Council, working with the City of Auburn and Auburn Parks and Recreation, has launched a "Birthday Kit Squad" donation drive to collect supplies for simple birthday cake kits that will be given to families in need.
Organizers say the goal is to make it easy for children whose families may be struggling to still celebrate their birthdays.
Residents are encouraged to donate items that can be combined into a complete birthday cake kit, including:
- Box of cake mix
- 12-ounce can of lemon-lime soda
- 8- or 9-inch foil cake pan with lid
- Container of frosting
- Birthday candles
- Blank birthday card and envelope
The soda replaces eggs and oil in the recipe, allowing families to make a cake with only a few ingredients.
Donations are being accepted through April 15 at two locations:
- Auburn City Hall Utility Office, 210 East Ninth Street (Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.)
- Auburn Parks Office, 306 East Ensley Avenue (Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.)
Once collected, the Youth Advisory Council will assemble the kits and distribute them through local schools and area food banks, allowing counselors and volunteers to provide them discreetly to families who need them.
Organizers say the project is designed to bring the community together around a simple goal: making sure every child has the chance to blow out candles and celebrate their birthday.