A group of volunteers have been ‘baking a difference’ for children and young people in Blackburn with Darwen for over 10 years, and in that time they have provided almost 500 cakes to children who would not otherwise receive one on their birthday.
Free Cakes for Kids – Blackburn with Darwen is led by Group Co-Ordinator, Claire Stock and she is supported by a team of bakers, some of whom are professional cake makers, but most who are home bakers. There is a network of Free Cakes for Kids groups across the country, but the Blackburn with Darwen group is one of the longest running.
The group works primarily with partner organisations, such as DARE, Young Carers and Humraaz Support Services, who refer families they know are experiencing hardship and would struggle to provide a birthday cake for their child. Once a referral is received, a volunteer will bake a personalised birthday cake and deliver it to the family. The service is completely free and aims to put a smile on the face of a child and give them a birthday to remember.
The group is always looking for volunteers to bake, or even just to help delivering the cakes. If you would like more information, please email freecakesforkids.blackburn@gmail.com. The group would also like to hear from any organisations who would like to make referrals for children that they support. If you would like more information about how to make a referral, please also email the group.
