On Sunday April 15th, a combination of youth groups from various churches around Wilmington came together for the Be the Light event. Be the Light hosts several projects each year and chose Catholic Charities as the beneficiary of their spring event. At the two hour event held at the Pine Valley Baptist Church, youth put together birthday bags for the Capes and Tiaras Birthday club program where children in poverty get a toy and all of the necessary items to have a cake on their special day.
During this fun event, participants packed birthday bags, enjoyed pizza and cake, played birthday party games, and had a worship portion with the college worship band. “The youth today were able to pack 250 birthday bags today,” explained Ms. Emilie Hart, Catholic Charities Cape Fear Regional Director.
Each of the bags will contain cake mix, a cake pan, frosting, sprinkles, candles, a handmade birthday card, and a blank card for someone. Hart continued, “These birthday kits allow families with limited resources to celebrate their children.”
After packing the birthday bags, the youth formed a circle and prayed over the bags. The group then lit candles on a huge sheet cake and sang happy birthday to all the children who don’t have the privilege to be celebrate their birthdays. The bags will be given out to families who visit the Catholic Charities food pantry in Wilmington.
“I am grateful to everyone who was involved with Be the Light. This day will make a big difference for vulnerable families in our community,” Hart stated.
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