Frequently Asked Questions

What percentage of my donation goes directly to granting wishes?
Over 75% of every dollar you contribute to Make-A-Wish^® Greater Bay Area is used directly to help grant wishes. This percentage far exceeds the standard upheld by organizations monitoring the work of charities.

Does “life-threatening” mean “terminal?”
No. A life-threatening illness is not necessarily a terminal illness. In fact, about 80% of our wish children go on to lead healthy lives, remembering fondly the wish that in many cases was an integral part of their healing process.

How much does it cost a family to have a wish granted?
Nothing. There is no cost to the family, we take care of everything.

What can a child wish for?
We like to say that a wish is only limited by a child’s imagination; however, some restrictions do apply to protect the safety of the child.

How old does a child have to be to have a wish granted?
The child must be older than 2½ and younger than 18 at the time they are referred to Make-A-Wish to have a wish granted.

What are the medical criteria for having a wish granted?
To qualify for a wish, the child must have a diagnosed medical condition that is considered to be life-threatening by their physician. We do consider wishes on a case-by-case basis, so it is always best to contact us if there is a question as to whether a child qualifies.

Can a child qualify for a wish if they have received one from another wish-granting organization?
No, a child that has received a wish from another wish granting organization is not eligible for a wish from Make-A-Wish.

Does the family have to know I am referring their child?
Yes, the family must be aware that the referral is being made.

Does the family’s financial status matter?
No, the economic background of the child and their family has no bearing on whether or not a wish is granted. The only qualifying factors are age and medical condition.

Are all wishes publicized?
No, families can choose whether they will allow publicity of the wish. We always respect their need for privacy.

What if a child has special medical needs during a wish?
If a child has special medical needs during a wish, they are discussed with the physician and family beforehand and provided for by the chapter as needed.

Does Make-A-Wish telemarket?
Make-A-Wish does not, under any circumstances, engage telemarketers to raise money, despite sometimes being confused with other organizations that do. In fact, we have a nationwide policy against telephone and door-to-door solicitation. There are a number of other sound-alike organizations – some also with “wish” in their names. Make-A-Wish has no affiliation with any other wish-granting organization. If you receive a call from someone asking for a donation, that person does not represent Make-A-Wish.

Can I donate my airline mileage to Make-A-Wish?
Yes. Donated airline mileage can helps us grant travel wishes. To donate your miles, please click here.

Can my financial contribution be tax deductible?
Yes. Make-A-Wish Greater Bay Area is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. As such, financial contributions may be deductible for federal income tax purposes. Please consult with your financial advisor to determine the extent of tax deductibility.

How do I refer a child?
Please click here to complete an online wish referral form or contact Linda De La Torre at hdelatorre@SFWish.org or at (415) 402-2769.

How do I become a volunteer?
Please contact our volunteer manager at volunteer@sfwish.org

Does Make-A-Wish participate in chain letter wishes?
No. Each day, Make-A-Wish® America and its chapters receive hundreds of inquiries about chain letters claiming to be associated with the Foundation and featuring sick children. However, we do not participate in these kinds of wishes. Some names associated with these wishes are: Jessie Anderson, Shane Bernier, Chad Briody , Amy Bruce, Jeff DeLeon, Rhyan Desquetado, Anthony Hebrank, LaNisha Jackson, Nikisha Johnson, Craig Sheldon, Craig Shelford, Craig Shelton, Craig Sheppard, Craig Shergold, Bryan Warner and Kayla Wightman. Please click here if you’d like more information about chain letters.

If you have any additional questions not addressed here, please do not hesitate to contact us at:
(415) 982-9474.