Life in homeless shelters can be extremely tough on families with young children, but a Brooklyn bakery owner is trying to make their lives a little sweeter.

Maria Nitti of Isabella's Creations donated cupcakes to a Christmas party at the Camba Flagstone Family Center in Brownsville a couple of years ago. She thought it would be great to give kids a treat more often, so last summer she started Operation Birthday Party.

She teams up with local vendors to throw a celebration for the children at the shelter who are celebrating their birthdays that month. On Sunday, a party there included a magician, a DJ, goodie bags and presents, and, of course, some sweet treats.

About 150 families live in the shelter with more than 400 children.

"Every child should be able to celebrate their birthday. I understand parents aren't able, so we try to do it for them and help with what they can't," says Nitti.

Parents who spoke with News 12 say money is tight and the celebrations help out in a big way.

Nitti says she hopes to expand Operation Birthday Party to other shelters and orphanages.