Refer a Child

Who is eligible?

A 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, is potentially eligible for a wish.  After a child is referred to the Make-A-Wish Foundation^®, our organization 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.  In addition, a child cannot have received a wish from another wish-granting organization.

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 Child. 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 referral form or contact Cheryl Malone, Program Director, at (518) 782-4673 or cmalone@neny.wish.org.  The inquiry form is not an official application, but a request for more information.  If you are not eligible to refer a child, please ask the child’s family to visit our Web site or contact their local chapter.