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NORTH PORT (FOX 13) - For the second time, North Port police are working to make an 8-year-old boy's birthday party one he will never forget. But this time, police are expecting dozens of other children to show up and celebrate.
Police are throwing a big birthday bash at Dallas White Park in North Port on Sunday.
For the past two years, the parents of 8-year-old Daniel Nicastro have thrown birthday parties for him, but each time, no one shows up. Instead of enjoying his special day, they say he's spent the day crying.
Daniel has autism, so making friends has always been difficult for him.
This year, his parents had a new idea. Instead of just inviting children his age, they invited the North Port Police Department. They say Daniel looks at police officers as superheroes.
They weren't sure what to expect after sending out the invite, but several police officers showed up, even baring gifts.
The department shared a photo of Daniel with the officers on Facebook, and it has gotten attention worldwide.
North Port police will hold an even bigger birthday bash Sunday at Dallas White Park for Daniel and other kids throughout the area, in honor of all those who have ever felt left out.
There will be bounce houses and food.