FAQs....Referring A Child

How is a child referred for a wish?
There are several ways to refer a child to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. You can call the Metro New York Chapter offices at (516) 944-6212. Referrals can also be made online via our National site www.wish.org or referral forms can be faxed (medical personnel only) to (516) 883-1835.

Who can refer a child?
Eligible children can be referred by a parent or legal guardian, or a medical professional involved in their care. We also accept self-referrals by children who contact us directly.

How is eligibility determined?
Medical eligibility is determined by the child’s primary care physician, who must sign a medical authorization. Any child facing a life-threatening medical condition who is between the ages of two and a half and under the age of 18 at the time of referral and who has not previously been granted a wish by any chapter of the Make-A-Wish Foundation or by any other wish-granting organization is eligible for a wish.

Is a child who has already received a wish from another organization eligible for a Make-A-Wish Foundation wish?
Children who have had previous wishes granted by the Make-A-Wish Foundation or by other wish-granting organizations are not eligible for a second wish.

Does the family’s financial status matter?
No, a family’s financial status has no impact on determining eligibility or the wish that is granted.

Can we count on the Make-A-Wish Foundation to protect the child’s privacy?
The Make-A-Wish Foundation respects the privacy of the children and families it serves. All medical information is considered confidential and is not discussed with outside parties unless it is required for the wish and the child’s parent(s) or guardian(s) have given their consent.