FAQ
Feel free to review the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) a topic below for answers to some of the most commonly asked questions. If your area of interest is not addressed, we look forward to hearing from you.
Who can receive a wish?
Do you grant wishes to adults?
Does a child's illness have to be terminal in order to qualify for a wish?
Can a child receive more than one wish?
Are there any restrictions to a wish?
Does the family have to pay for the wish?
Does the family have to meet financial criteria in order to be eligible for their child to receive a wish?
Is there a waiting list to receive a wish?
How long does it take to grant a wish from referral to fulfillment?
How much does a wish cost to grant?
What are the most requested wishes?
Typically, wishes fall into one of five general categories.
I wish to go …
Some Make-A-Wish kids want to travel to their favorite theme park, while others want to visit an exotic beach, go on a cruise, or attend a major sporting event or concert.
I wish to be …
Children search the depths of their imagination when they wish to be someone for a day – a fireman, a police officer, a doctor, a princess, a pirate, a model or a superhero.
I wish to meet …
Many wish kids choose to meet their favorite athlete, recording artist, television personality, movie star, politician or other public figure.
I wish to have …
Children sometimes wish for a special gift, such as a computer, a tree house, cooking lessons at a renowned cooking institution or a shopping spree.
I wish to experience …
Many wish kids want to have an experience, such as feeling the sand in their feet, seeing snow for the first time.
What are your sources of funding?
How much of my donation funds wishes?
Make-A-Wish International is proud of the manner in which it manages the generous donations of its supporters. In 2022, more than 80% of the funds raised by Make-A-Wish are used to fulfill our mission. Visit our Financial Information section to see more of our exceptional donor stewardship.
Is there an affiliate near me?
To find the affiliate closest to you, visit the Around the World page.
What if there is not an affiliate in my country? Can my child still request a wish?
We regret that it is not possible to grant wishes to children who reside in countries where Make-A-Wish does not yet have an affiliate; however, if your child is receiving medical treatment for an extended length of time in a country where there is a Make-A-Wish office, it may be possible to grant your child’s wish. To refer a child for a wish, please visit the Around the World page in the navigation or submit an inquiry via our Contact Form.
How do you decide which children receive wishes?
Make-A-Wish does not decide which children receive wishes. Every child referred to Make-A-Wish who is deemed eligible for a wish receives their wish.