Refer a Child

Who is eligible?

Any child with a life-threatening medical condition who has reached the age of 2½ and is under the age of 18 at the time of referral and has not yet received a wish from another Make-A-Wish® chapter or another wish granting organization, is potentially eligible for a wish.

After a child is referred to the Make-A-Wish Foundation®, the Foundation will contact the child’s treating physician to determine whether the child is medically eligible for a wish, based on the medical criteria established by the Make-A-Wish Foundation of America.
Who can refer a child?

• Medical professionals
• Parents/legal guardians
• Potential wish kids

Please keep in mind that Make-A-Wish Foundation will not cold-call a potential Wish Kid. We ask that you please exercise compassion, and suggest to the family that they contact us themselves. Having a second-party introduction can often times make the child or their family feel uncomfortable, and we would prefer that the process be comforting, enjoyable and as private as possible. Thank you for your understanding in this matter.

How can I refer a child?

To learn more about referring a child who lives in the United States or one of its territories, you may use our online inquiry form or contact us at (516) 944-6212 ext. 114. The inquiry form is not an official application, but a request for more information.

If you would like to learn more about referring a child residing outside the United States, please contact Make-A-Wish Foundation International. If you are not eligible to refer a child, please ask the child’s family t visit our Web site or contact their local chapter or international affiliate.