Jessica Simpson's orphan birthday

Aug 13, 2007, 11:00 GMT

Jessica Simpson wanted a Mexican orphan for her 16th birthday.

The 'Dukes of Hazzard' star, who has visited Mexico's Casa Hogar Elim orphanage since she was 16, asked her father if she could keep one of the orphans the first time she went there.

Jessica told Self magazine: "My father was a minister, so growing up, we'd go on a missionary trip every summer.

"The first time I went to that orphanage, I was 16. I remember holding this baby who was found in a dumpster. I wanted to adopt him right then and there. I was like, 'Dad, can I have him for my birthday, please?' "

The 26-year-old singer-and-actress has also expressed a wish to adopt abroad like Angelina Jolie.

She said: "I think Angelina Jolie has done amazing things. The international adoption rate has skyrocketed.

"I want to adopt before I actually have my own kids. I want three kids - but I don't know if I can give birth three times. I'll have to see how much pain is involved first time round."

Earlier this year, Jessica donated a van to the Casa Hogar Elim orphanage, which she delivered in person.

The 'Employee of the Month' star was greeted by cheers as she drove through the gates in a white 2007 Chrysler Town and Country eight seat van and handed the keys to Mama Lupita, who runs the home.

Jessica won a sports car at last year's MTV Video Music Awards, but swapped it for a minivan so she could help the orphanage.

(C) BANG Media International