A Birthday Celebration at Saint John’s Shelter: Sacramento, CA
On Saturday, June 21, 2025, the Sri Sathya Sai Center of Greater Sacramento brought joy and love to the children and families at Saint John’s Women and Children’s Shelter in Sacramento, CA. The afternoon was dedicated to celebrating the birthdays of six children born in June, and the event blossomed into a vibrant gathering filled with laughter and fun activities.
Approximately 15 Sai Center members - from young children to adults - came together to host the celebration. In total, 45 children from the shelter, ranging in age from toddlers to early teens, joined in the festivities, many accompanied by their parents. The energy was warm and welcoming from the moment guests arrived.
Sai Center volunteers had transformed the space with colorful balloons and cheerful decorations, creating an atmosphere of celebration and belonging. The joy on the faces of the children and their families was unmistakable. Each birthday child received a thoughtful gift, lovingly selected and presented by the volunteers.
The afternoon was filled with engaging activities that sparked laughter and excitement. Sack races and a piñata brought out playful competition and smiles all around. One of the most cherished moments was the hand art station, where children and adults alike lined up to have their favorite designs drawn on their palms. Sai Center members patiently created each image using gentle, herbal henna, and the reactions - from wide-eyed wonder to proud displays - made it the highlight of the day.
To sweeten the celebration, cupcakes were shared with everyone, adding a delicious touch to an already joyful occasion. The simple act of gathering, playing, and sharing treats became a powerful reminder of the beauty of human connection.
Sai Center members left the shelter with full hearts, deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve and uplift. On this special afternoon, love was given freely - and received with open arms.