Drew surprises two Drew-Gooders, who also happen to be best friends, with a sweet video of people showing their appreciation of their hard work. The BFFs, Belinda Leto and Celina Saunders, founded an organization "Celebrate Birthdays," which helps foster children and children in need celebrate their birthdays.
We are so thankful to have been featured and surprised on the Today Show!!
For Belinda Leto and Celina Saunders, the season of giving is all year-round. Co-founders of "Celebrate Birthdays,” the pair work to make sure every foster child and child in their Tampa community can celebrate their special day regardless of their family’s financial situation. With the help of TODAY contributor Elizabeth Mayhew, the women get a surprise holiday party in their honor, and our sponsor Amazon Prime gifts them with $25,000 to continue their efforts.
Tampa nurse helps foster children celebrate birthdays
When Belinda Leto found out that most foster children were not given birthday parties, she and a fellow nurse created a non-profit to give them free birthday parties.
"It’s fun. It's entertaining," shared nine-year-old Helen Thomas, who is adopted. "I like it when we eat the cake and we play games."
Celebrate Birthdays bring the party to children on their special day
For most kids, there is nothing more exciting than their birthday -- the cake, the balloons, and the presents -- but not all families have the means to celebrate. That's where 'Celebrate Birthdays' come in.
Two Tampa nurses give foster children free birthday parties
TAMPA, Fla. - Two Tampa nurses have thrown more than 1,000 birthday parties for foster children through their non-profit organization called 'Celebrate Birthdays'.
"Our mission is to make sure that every foster child and really all children regardless of their circumstance gets an opportunity to celebrate their birthday day and receive a present,” said co-founder Belinda Leto.
WTSP - Local Organization Hosts Free Birthday Parties for Kids
Thanks to your time and donations, we were featured on WSTP Tampa Bay!
ABC Action News - Birthdays During Quarantine
TAMPA, Fla. -- Social distancing guidelines due to COVID-19 have put a stop to many birthday parties for kids across the Tampa Bay area. But the nonprofit organization Celebrate Birthdays is working to make sure kids still have the means to enjoy their special day.
Demands for Celebrate Birthday's "Birthday in a Box" have substantially increased, according to Belinda Leto.
Leto is one of the founders of Celebrate Birthdays. The nonprofit is still working to make sure every child can celebrate their birthday, especially in these difficult times.