Frequently Asked Questions about Wishes

How do you choose which children get wishes?
We don't choose. We grant the wish of every eligible child regardless of race, religion and/or socio-economic status.

Who makes a wish referral?
Wish referrals can be made by a parent, legal guardian, the wish child or a medical professional.

How are wishes granted?
After confirming the child's medical eligibility, following receipt of the standard paperwork, a two-member volunteer wish team visits with the child and their family to determine the child's wish. The chapter staff or Board of Directors approves the wish and the staff and volunteers then go to work creating the magic.

Does the family have to pay for the wish?
Absolutely not! All wish expenses are fully covered, including travel expenses and spending money. Our objective is to provide the child and their family with carefree and joyful memories.

How much does it cost to grant a wish?
On average we spend $6,500 to grant a wish. However, wish costs can vary greatly and be much more or less expensive than the average. Nationwide, the average cost of granting a wish is between $3,500 and $6,500.

What is the most requested wish?
The most popular wishes are visiting Disney World, computers, meeting celebrities, shopping sprees and travel. All wish requests fall into four major categories:

"I wish to go..."
"I wish to be..."
"I wish to meet..."
"I wish to have..."

Is the family included in the wish?
Whenever possible, we make every effort to include the immediate family.

How many wishes have been granted?
In the state of Minnesota, we've granted close to 3,000 wishes.

Throughout the world, Make-A-Wish Foundation® has granted more than 159,000 wishes.