Parents’ Guide
As a parent or guardian, you might have some questions about the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Your child cannot be referred to the Foundation without your permission and perhaps you are hesitating. We hope that this area of our Web site will help put your mind at ease.
Does a child have to be terminal or dying?
No, the Make-A-Wish Foundation grants wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions. In fact, more than 80% of the children we have helped are still alive today. That says a lot about the power of medicine and the magic of the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Does our financial situation affect whether our child will get a wish?
No, financial circumstances play no role in qualification. Only your child's medical condition is a factor.
Can I refer my child?
Yes, anyone can refer a child to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. If the referral is made by someone other than a parent/guardian or potential wish child, permission must be obtained from the family to contact the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Does my child then go on a waiting list?
No, we fulfill wishes on your timetable, not ours. We want the wish experience to be as carefree as possible. You will be visited by trained Make-A-Wish volunteers who will help plan every detail of the wish. We just want you to simply enjoy the experience.
How will this help my child?
Read on to learn what other parents have said about their child's Make-A-Wish experience.
Spot Says… Call us to learn how to refer a child. It's fast and easy to do. Share the power of a wish®
Rachel, 11, Hawaii Trip
