Eligibility
The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Greater Pennsylvania and Southern West Virginia fulfills wishes for children between the ages of 2 1/2 and 18 (at the time of the referral) who have diagnosed life-threatening medical conditions. The child's health care specialist must confirm the medical condition. The financial status of a family is never a factor in wish eligibility.
We understand that referring a child may be a very difficult step for some parents. Please be assured that qualification to the Make-A-Wish Foundation does not mean that all hope is gone. In our 25 year history, we have fulfilled wishes for thousands of children and more than 80% of the wish children are still alive today. We never refer to wish children as terminal or dying. We grant life-affirming wishes for children who are living with a life-threatening medical condition.
While this chapter works with children and families throughout 57 counties in western, central, and northeastern Pennsylvania and 23 counties in southern West Virginia, other Make-A-Wish chapters provide the same service around the country and in various countries throughout the world. If your referral is for a child outside our territory, we will pass the referral on to the appropriate chapter.
Spot Says… For the third year in a row, our Make-A-Wish chapter has received a four-star rating from Charity Navigator, showing sound fiscal management and responsibility.
Kendra, 7, Disney World Trip
