Matching Fundraiser for Birthday Blessings

“While there are more than 20,000 children in the Missouri foster system, there are about 220 of these at-risk kids in Carter, Howell, Oregon and Shannon Counties,” said Shannon VonAllmen, executive director of Birthday Blessings. The organization collaborates with Missouri Children’s Divisions and other community-based nonprofits to provide resources to foster children. 

In 2021, the organization sent 164 birthday party bags, 97 duffels or backpacks, 23 Easter baskets, 20 seasonal care packages and 7 graduation gift bags and two baskets of household goods to foster children in Carter, Howell, Oregon and Shannon Counties. 

The 501c3 organization provides these services through donations from individuals, businesses, civic groups and foundations. They receive no government funding. They have been locally supported by West Plains Community Foundation and the West Plains Optimist Club.

“I often hear people say they wanted to do something to help foster kids but couldn’t become foster parents. They didn’t know how else to help. Birthday Blessings gives compassionate people an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children,” VonAllmen stated. “Our annual Birthday Bash is a great way to double the impact of donated dollars.”

The non-profit will hold their match event March 29 through April 2. A donor will match up to $10,000 in donations during this time. They will also host an open house at 603 Oregon Street in West Plains on April 1st and 2nd from 9am-5pm.

Checks postmarked before or during the event will be counted and can be mailed to Birthday Blessings, 429 Aid Ave, West Plains MO 65775. Visit www.birthday-blessings.org for online payment options. For more information, call 417-372-5306.