The goal of the Birthday Heroes Program is to ensure that every child has a special birthday! Eligibility is based on household income and residency (must be West Des Moines resident).  Please click here for income guidelines. If you qualify for assistance, each child in your household up to age 18 will receive a gift on his or her birthday!  In addition, a Birthday Bag Kit will be provided if available.  Birthday Bag Kits can include cake mix, frosting, candles, balloons, plates, and napkins. Parents are notified when the gifts are ready for pick up at West Des Moines Human Services.  

This program can accept a limited number of children and is available on a first-come, first-serve basis.  Registration for this program is now closed. Check back in January of 2026 to register. If a household is notified and does not pick up a child's gift within 30 days, the gift will be restocked and the household will be removed from the program.

Donations
This program depends on contributions from the community! If you would like to donate new birthday gifts, please contact us!  Monetary donations are also appreciated - please designate your gift for "Birthday Heroes". We are also in need of "Birthday Kit Bags" - please click here for instructions on assembling Birthday Kit Bags.