After a morning drop-in at New Westminster Family Place Quayside, a proud mother and her soft-spoken teen wheeled up with a wagon full of care packages. This begins a heartwarming story of a local teen and long-time Girl Guide, who embarked on a mission to spread joy through her innovative community giving project. With the support of her mother, Megan’s project became a shining example of how the Neighbourhood Small Grant Program we administer for New West can spread love.
Megan envisioned a unique way to bring happiness to those in need. Her idea was simple yet profound: “Birthday in a Box.” This thoughtful care package would include all the essentials to make a birthday cake, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, could celebrate their special day. Megan’s innovative solution even included using sprite as a substitute for eggs and milk, making the boxes accessible and inclusive. The bonus: she has packaged them with a cute Hello Kitty graphic on the top!
A Mother-Daughter Duo
Megan’s inspiration and determination were matched by the support of her mother. The bond between them was strengthened by their shared history with New Westminster Family Place, where they had participated in various programs when Megan was very young. The opportunity to give back to the community that had given them so much was a powerful motivator for both.
With the help of the Neighbourhood Small Grant Program, Megan and her mother set their plan into motion. They gathered supplies, designed the boxes, and organized a distribution event in a public area. The community’s response was overwhelming. Families, individuals, and local organizations came together to support the initiative, turning Megan’s vision into a beautiful reality.
Spreading Joy and Connection
The “Birthday in a Box” project won’t just provide cake supplies; it will deliver joy, dignity, and a sense of belonging to those who receive the packages. We know that the community will feel the impact of Megan’s generosity and creativity. Her initiative highlights an essential aspect of community giving: connecting with and understanding the needs of those around us. The “Birthday in a Box” project will be integrated into New Westminster Family Place programming. We are proud to see how the families we support continue to pay it forward, fostering a culture of kindness and generosity.
Megan’s story is a testament to the power of community support, family bonds, and the incredible impact that young people can have when given the tools and encouragement to pursue their dreams. At New Westminster Family Place, we are honored to be part of such inspiring journeys and look forward to nurturing more projects that bring joy and connection to our community.
Stay tuned for more stories of community, innovation, and the incredible people who make New Westminster a wonderful place to live and grow.
We hope Megan’s story inspires you to think about how you can contribute to our vibrant community. If you have an idea for a community project, consider applying for our Neighbourhood Small Grant Program in the 2025 season and join us in making a difference.