Spotlight on:
Williamsport
Dwell Orphan Care Makes Birthdays Brighter for Children in Foster Care
For children in foster and kinship care, birthdays can be overshadowed by uncertainty, loss, and transition. Williamsport-based nonprofit Dwell is helping change that through its Made to Celebrate initiative, providing personalized birthday packages that remind children they are seen, valued, and loved.
Each birthday package is thoughtfully curated based on the child ' s own wish list. From favorite books and toys to clothing, art supplies, and special interests, every gift is chosen to celebrate the child as an individual and foster a sense of belonging.
Sometimes the impact extends far beyond a birthday. One eight-year-old girl requested a journal and colorful gel pens. After receiving her gifts, she and her foster mother began writing back and forth in the journal, creating a safe way to communicate about difficult emotions and questions she had about her biological mother. What began as a birthday present became a pathway for trust and connection.
" Every child deserves to know they matter," said Jennifer Lake, Executive Director of Dwell. " For children who have experienced trauma and significant life changes, receiving a gift they specifically hoped for communicates something powerful: You are seen. You are valued. You belong."
Made to Celebrate is one of several ways Dwell supports foster, adoptive, and kinship families throughout Central PA. The organization also provides emergency resources through The Hope Chest, Trust-Based Relational Intervention Trauma training, and family support groups.
Community support makes these programs possible. Volunteers, churches, businesses, and donors all play an important role in ensuring children and families receive the encouragement and practical resources they need to thrive.
To learn more about Dwell or support the Made to Celebrate initiative:
Call- 814-330-6804 • Online- www. dwellorphancare. org
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