One in six children live in poverty worldwide. The children who come into our care have had a difficult early life. Many do not know their age or even their birthday. So, each August, on the 15th, we celebrate Every Child’s Birthday, giving every child in our schools a birthday celebration, with a party, cake and sometimes ice cream. For most, this will be their first ever birthday celebration. It is a chance for us to nurture them, build their confidence and give them new memories for the future. Help us bring joy to every child this August with the gift of a good education.

group of boys eating food at a long banquet style table

Give hope to every child

The Sisters of Mary offer hope to the most vulnerable people in the poorest communities through practical support, education, and training. In the Sisters of Mary programmes around the world, every child is given three meals a day, academic and vocational education and training, sporting activities, and pastoral support.

Every child finds friendship, security, love, and hope when they come to the Sisters of Mary.

Every Child’s Birthday 

Be a part of bringing joy to every child in our programmes this 15th August and donate to give the gift of an education to a child in need.  Your gift will support the cost of educating every child, as well as providing a small birthday gift, helping to give every child a bright future.

Gerald smiles at the camera in the Philippines, wearing a yellow sports golf shirt

Children reflect on their birthday celebrations

“I can hardly contain my excitement when I think back to our amazing birthday celebration! I felt so overjoyed, surrounded by the people I love, with the most delicious cake I’ve ever tasted!

It was an experience that I will never forget and will always cherish in my heart!”

– Gerald, 12 years old, Adlas Boystown, Philippines (pictured right)

“I really enjoy staying in Girlstown. 15 August is a special day for us. What I really like is the cake an piñata. These are moments of great happiness for us. Thank you so much!”

– Yaimy, 15 years old, Tegucigalpa Girlstown, Honduras

What I liked most was that we met as a family. I really liked the special food, because at home I did not eat well. I loved the gift, new clothes, and sweets.”

 – Valeria, 14 years old, Chalco Girlstown, Mexico

Girls sitting on the floor, three at the front are smiling and holding up new t shirts

Education is key to every child's success

The stories of these children are stories of hope and empowerment, showing how giving equal opportunity to children trapped in poverty can improve entire communities.

Children deserve a happy childhood

The chance to feel confident, loved and to celebrate life’s milestones and that is why 15th August is so special at our schools. Every Child’s Birthday is such an important day. For the first time they will be the centre of attention, they will enjoy a party with cake, candles and best of all, a personalised present.

Receiving a good education and three meals a day should not be so difficult. Impoverished families struggle to afford food and their youngest children suffer from malnutrition and stunted growth as a result. Help us provide these children with a life changing education and the tools for a brighter future. It costs just £12 for a gift for each of our children which includes some clothing for school, some art supplies or sports kit and a treat. Can you help?