Sheffield charity bakes 1,000th birthday cake for disadvantaged children

Free Cakes For Kids Sheffield has reached the milestone bake, thanks to the dedicated work of more than 60 volunteers.

Volunteers create cakes for children supported by social workers, schools, food banks, hostels and homeless charities, who would otherwise miss out on having a birthday cake, due to poverty, homelessness or family breakdown.

Jackie Pugh, group administrator, said: “I’m so grateful to our generous volunteers who spend so much time creating beautiful, personal and delicious birthday cakes for some of the most deprived children in Sheffield.

“We believe every child deserves a cake designed just for them on their special day.

“When we receive a request, we match the family with a local volunteer who goes on to bake the cake with the child's favourite theme in mind. We’ve made cakes which celebrate children’s passions – from princesses to computer games – and themes as varied as dinosaurs, baby shark and cars.”

Free Cakes for Kids Sheffield has revealed the most popular birthday cakes requested by children in the city to mark the milestone achievement.

Unicorns and football are the most-requested cake for both girls and boys, with Peppa Pig, flowers and superheroes not too far behind.

Volunteer Alison Ryan, who baked the 1000th cake, said “I love baking and decorating cakes. It's great that we can help to make a birthday special for a child who might be living in difficult circumstances.”

The charity, which launched in Sheffield in 2013, baked 160 cakes in 2019 alone.

From Noah's Ark to Mr Tumble, the charity pulls out all the stops to give children a cake that's special to them – and it is all free, friendly and confidential.

Children and families are referred to the charity by organisations throughout Sheffield who work with families and children - including schools, food banks, hostels and charities.

Email [email protected] if you are an enthusiastic baker, could help deliver cakes or would like to get involved.