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Privacy Policy

Effective Date: April 15, 2026
Last Updated: April 16, 2026

Birthday Candle (“we,” “our,” or “us”) is committed to protecting your privacy and safeguarding your personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, and protect your information when you visit our website or interact with our programs and services.

1. Information We Collect

We may collect personal information from donors, applicants, volunteers, and website visitors, including:

  • Personal Information: Full name, Email address, Phone number, Mailing address, Date of birth (when applicable)
  • Child and Family Information: Child’s first name (or initials, where possible), Age or age range, Clothing sizes and gift preferences, Birthday details, General information necessary to fulfill birthday assistance requests
  • Donation and Financial Information: Donation amounts and history, Billing details (processed securely through third-party providers)
  • Technical Information: IP address, Browser type and device information, Pages visited and website usage data

2. How We Use Your Information

We use the information we collect to:

  • Provide birthday assistance and match donors with recipients
  • Process and acknowledge donations
  • Communicate with donors, volunteers, and applicants
  • Coordinate gift drop-offs and program operations
  • Improve our website and services
  • Send updates, newsletters, and impact stories (with consent)
  • Maintain accurate records and comply with legal obligations

3. Protection of Children’s Privacy

Birthday Candle is deeply committed to protecting the privacy, safety, and dignity of the children and families we serve.

  • Information about minors is collected only from a parent or legal guardian or an authorized adult acting on their behalf.
  • We collect only the minimum information necessary to fulfill birthday assistance requests.
  • Children’s personal information is never sold, shared publicly, or used for marketing purposes.
  • We do not knowingly publish identifying details (such as full names, addresses, or identifiable photos) without explicit written parental or guardian consent.
  • Any profiles or descriptions shared with donors are limited, anonymized when possible, and manually reviewed to protect the child’s identity.
  • All child-related information is handled with strict confidentiality and access is limited to authorized individuals involved in program operations.

4. Compliance with Children’s Online Privacy Laws

Birthday Candle is intended for use by adults (such as parents, guardians, donors, and volunteers). We do not knowingly collect personal information directly from children under 13 without verified parental consent, in accordance with the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act. If we become aware that information has been collected from a child without appropriate consent, we will promptly delete that information.

5. How We Share Information

We do not sell, rent, or trade personal information. We may share information only when necessary with:

  • Trusted volunteers and partners assisting in program fulfillment
  • Secure third-party service providers (such as payment processors and website platforms)
  • Law enforcement or regulatory agencies when required by law

All partners and service providers are expected to maintain the confidentiality and security of personal information.

6. Data Security

We implement appropriate administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your personal information. This includes:

  • Secure data storage systems
  • Restricted access to sensitive information
  • Use of trusted, encrypted third-party platforms where applicable

While we strive to use commercially acceptable means to protect your data, no method of transmission over the internet is completely secure.

7. Cookies and Website Tracking

Our website may use cookies and analytics tools to enhance user experience and gather insights into website usage. You can adjust your browser settings to disable cookies at any time.

8. Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to third-party websites. Birthday Candle is not responsible for the privacy practices or content of those external sites. We encourage users to review their privacy policies.

9. Your Privacy Rights

  • Request access to your personal information
  • Request corrections or updates
  • Request deletion of your data
  • Opt out of marketing communications at any time

To make a request, please contact us using the information below.

10. Data Retention

We retain personal information only as long as necessary to:

  • Fulfill program needs
  • Coordinate services and donations
  • Comply with legal and recordkeeping obligations

We periodically review and securely delete information that is no longer needed.

11. Policy Updates

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Any changes will be posted on this page with an updated effective date.

12. Contact Us

Email: info@birthdaycandle.org
Mailing Address:

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