Refer a Child
When you meet a child who could benefit from a life-changing wish, it can be hard to know what to do next. Many people want to help, but they are unsure how the referral process works or whether they are allowed to take the first step.
We like to explain how you can refer a child to Make-A-WishⓇ and what happens after you do. It is designed to give you clarity, comfort, and confidence, so you understand how your action can open the door to hope and new possibilities for a child facing critical illness and their family.
Who is Eligible For A Wish?
A child can be referred when they face a critical illness and meet other eligibility conditions. Make-A-Wish assesses several factors to determine whether the child is eligible for a wish.
First of all, children must be between the ages of 3 and 17 years old at the time of referral. The child must also live in a country served by Make-A-Wish and they must not have had a wish granted previously. Once the child has been deemed eligible for a wish, the team supports the family through every stage of the process.
Eligibility is assessed based on medical necessity and the expert judgment of the child’s treating physician, along with guidance from our Medical Advisory Committee. Wish referrals are managed by each Make-A-Wish Affiliate or Licensed Territory for children residing within their respective countries.To be sure the wish child is helped truly with a wish, there are specific wish eligibility criteria.
Who Can Refer A Child?
Several people in a child’s life can take the first step towards a wish experience. Family members often make a referral, because they know the child’s daily challenges and understand how meaningful a wish could be. Friends or caregivers may do the same, especially when they see how a wish could bring comfort or encouragement.
Professionals who support the child also begin the process in some cases. This may include medical professionals, counselors, or social workers who are aware of the child’s medical condition and want to help create a moment of hope.
No matter who starts the referral, the Make-A-Wish team reviews each request with the most care and guides the child and their family through the next steps.
How Does The Referral Process Work?
After a child is referred, the Make-A-Wish-team begins by reaching out to the family. They explain what the process looks like and answer any questions, so the family feels supported
The child’s eligibility will be assessed. When a child qualifies, the family is guided through the next stage. They learn which information is needed and how the wish journey unfolds.
Once everything is confirmed, the Make-A-Wish team works directly with the family to begin determining the child’s wish. Each step is taken with respect, clarity, and patience. It ensures the family feels safe and well-supported throughout the entire experience.
Where Does Make-A-Wish Operate Throughout The World?
Make-A-Wish operates across the world through a wide network of Affiliates and Licensed Territories, so children in many countries can begin a wish journey close to home.
Our global presence spans nearly 50 countries, supported by dedicated teams who guide families with care and clarity. Explore our worldwide network.
Our Affiliates work within their own cultures and communities, so each child receives support that feels familiar and personal. Each local Make-A-Wish team guides families through the wish journey in a way that reflects their local culture and community.
This global network includes dedicated teams across Make-A-Wish America and their chapters, as well as the Make-A-Wish International network which includes Make-A-Wish Canada, Make-A-Wish UK, Make-A-Wish Australia, Make-A-Wish Netherlands, Make-A-Wish UAE, and Make-A-Wish India, along with many others who bring wishes to life in their regions. Together, these Affiliates form a worldwide network that helps children experience hope, joy, and the lasting impact of a wish.
Each Affiliate understands the needs of the children in their area, and together they make it possible for wishes to take shape in communities around the world.
How Do We Support The Safety of Each Wish?
Every wish begins with the child. Their interests, passions, and ideas shape the wish experience from the start. Families, caregivers, teachers, and community professionals help by listening closely and sharing what matters most to the child. Trusted advisors step in only when extra care or guidance is needed, always to support safety and well-being. Their role is not to decide, but to help make the child’s wish possible in a way that feels personal, thoughtful, and right for them. Together, these efforts allow each wish to take shape around what the child loves most. Read more about our safeguarding children & young people policy.
Where Does The Referral Process Start?
If you know a child who could benefit from a wish, take the first step today and reach out to your local Affiliate or Licensed Territories around the world.