The Cookie Girl Foundation logo
Samira Rao and her family decorating cookies with the gingerbread mascot

Every child deserves to feel seen.

Samira Rao and her children, Saira and Raj, turn simple creative moments into pride and joy for children in care.

20+years since Samira's first cookie day
500+children supported each year
1,500+kits and cookies distributed since becoming a nonprofit

Our vision

A community where every child feels seen, valued and cared for, with opportunities for creativity, connection and joy.

Our mission

To bring comfort and meaningful experiences to children through The Everything Kit, Cookie Girl Experiences and community-supported enrichment.

It began with a cookie. It became a connection.

  1. Samira Rao and her family at a cookie-decorating table20+ years ago

    How it all started

    Samira began bringing cookie-making to her children's school and saw how baking and decorating gave kids creativity, connection and pride.

  2. A volunteer high-fives a young child wearing an apronCreate

    Laying the path

    Saira, Raj and the CookieMates help children roll, bake and decorate cookies they can proudly call their own.

  3. A room filled with Everything Kits ready for childrenCare

    Widening our care

    The Everything Kit extends that care with everyday essentials and comforting items chosen around children's needs.

  4. Volunteers and the gingerbread mascot delivering gifts at Whaley Memorial HomeToday

    Growing with love

    As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, donors, volunteers and partners help us support 500+ children each year.

The care behind every cookie.

Our values guide every action, so our support stays honest, inclusive, reliable and community-driven.

Community first

We approach every child with warmth, respect and care.

Driven to serve

Our team gives its best with purpose, pride and dedication.

Respect and dignity

We honor each person's worth through respectful support.

Purpose in action

Joyful moments make care more meaningful and fulfilling.

Made possible by our supporters and community partners

  • Detroit Country Day School
  • Whaley Children's Center
  • SIPI: Social Impact Philanthropy and Investment
  • Voices for Children Advocacy Center
  • Dort Financial Credit Union

Every $22 provides a kit to a child in need.

Give today, or join us as a CookieMate volunteer, kit drive host or partner.

Get Involved