The birthday party for the homeless community was a huge success, thanks to the generosity and hearts of hundreds of community members. On March 18, 290 homeless men and women were honored at Seattle’s Union Gospel Mission’s Men’s Shelter. Homeless guests were greeted by smiling volunteers and Mission staff as they entered the chapel and dining hall filled with balloons, banners, birthday cards and streamers. They enjoyed a special meal – double cheeseburgers! – as well as ice cream and cake.

For many guests, this was the first birthday they had celebrated in years. One homeless man said, “It [the birthday party] was cool. The food, the atmosphere - it was nice. The card I read at the table brought me to tears.”

As each guest left the celebration they were presented with a gift packet including a birthday card, devotional, a pair of new athletic socks and healthy snack food – gifts many of you made possible with your generous donations.

If you are interested in getting involved in next year’s party, contact Polly at 206.723.0767 x168.