The Caring Place hosts 19th annual Bombastic Birthday Bash across Miami-Dade and Broward centers
For hundreds across South Florida who face hunger and homelessness, Tuesday marked more than just another day of survival; it was a day of remembrance, joy, and hope. The Caring Place, a long-standing nonprofit known for its holistic outreach programs, hosted its 19th annual Bombastic Birthday Party which turned out to be a deeply moving event that reminds the region’s most vulnerable that no birthday should ever go unnoticed.
Spanning both its Miami-Dade and Broward County centers, the celebration brought together local supporters, donors, volunteers, and faith leaders to honor homeless men, women, and children—many of whom hadn’t celebrated a birthday in years. The day was packed with festive meals, heartfelt gifts, and moments of unfiltered emotion.
From forgotten to celebrated: the impact of one day
At The Caring Place Miami Center, laughter echoed as cupcakes topped with candles were passed around, tumblers donated by the Homeless Trust filled grateful hands, and children hugged volunteers tightly while clutching new clothes and handmade birthday cards. The cafeteria transformed into a bright celebration space filled with balloons, live music, and Pastor Fox-West of St. Mary’s Wesleyan Methodist Church offering a powerful message of faith and salvation.
Meanwhile, in Broward County, a similar spirit of love prevailed. The Chick-fil-A cow joined the celebration as warm meals were served and sing-alongs broke out spontaneously. Changing Room Salons gave over 30 residents and guests a much-needed haircut, while local volunteers handed out custom-made birthday cards and gifts. Chaplain Pastor Elizabeth led the closing prayer, underscoring the day’s deeper message: you are not invisible, and your life matters.
A tradition rooted in compassion
The tradition began in 2006 with Marilyn Brummitt, who envisioned a simple yet thoughtful gesture: to give forgotten individuals a reason to smile and feel seen. According to Marilyn Brummitt, the event is about much more than just having cake and decorations; it's a way to reignite hope for individuals by celebrating each birthday as a meaningful milestone.
Now in its 19th year, the event has grown into a community movement powered by local partners, including Saving Families, Inc., who donated over 600 cupcakes for the Miami celebration, and the Caicedo-Sardi Family, who brought 150 sweet treats to Broward. Corporate sponsors like Professional Co-op Services and MER LLC provided hygiene kits and essential support, while dozens of community members gave their time, talent, and heart.
“You are seen. You are loved. You matter.”
Antonio Villasuso, President of The Caring Place, emphasized the power of such events to spark long-term transformation. “For many, this may seem like a simple party,” he said, “but to someone who’s been forgotten for years, it’s a turning point. It says: ‘You are seen. You are loved. Your life has value.’”
As birthday candles flickered and voices sang in unison, one resident put it best: “Today, for the first time in a long time, I felt like a human being again.”
To support The Caring Place’s life-affirming initiatives or to donate, visit www.caringplace.org/birthday.
Follow Calle Ocho News for stories that uplift and unify
At Calle Ocho News, we remain devoted to spotlighting the voices and victories of our vibrant Hispanic and Latin American communities in Miami and beyond. Whether it’s honoring grassroots efforts or amplifying bold leadership, we are your trusted source for news that matters.
Readers can explore additional community-centered features and cultural news by heading over to www.CalleOchoNews.com.
Looking to elevate your message to South Florida’s engaged Hispanic audience? Get in touch with Pressnet Corp. to reach over 200K monthly readers who care about culture, community, and meaningful impact.
Add Comment