More than 300 children in Ireland are currently waiting for life-changing wishes, Make-A-Wish Ireland has revealed as it launches Wish Week . 

The figure comes as the charity continues to expand its reach, granting 229 wishes in 2025 - its highest number to date - thanks to the generosity of the Irish public and corporate partners.

The nationwide fundraising campaign, in partnership with Newstalk, will run from Saturday April 11th to Friday April 17th, with a dedicated Donation Day on Friday April 17th.

Now in its 18th year, Wish Week will bring powerful, stories from children and families across Ireland to listeners, highlighting the life-changing impact of a wish for children living with critical medical conditions.

In 2025, Wish Week raised €245,000, helping Make-A-Wish Ireland increase the number of wishes delivered from 200 to 229.

This year, the charity is aiming to raise €265,000 to continue growing the number of wishes granted annually.

Make-A-Wish Ireland has granted over 3,600 wishes since 1992, creating moments of joy, strength and hope for children living with life threatening illnesses.

Throughout Wish Week, Newstalk will broadcast a series of interviews with families who have experienced the impact of a wish, offering listeners a powerful insight into how these moments can transform a child’s journey through illness.

“Wish Week has become one of the most meaningful weeks in our broadcasting calendar," Eric Moylan, Managing Editor of Newstalk said.

"Each year, our listeners connect deeply with the stories they hear — stories of courage, resilience and hope.

"We are proud to partner with Make-A-Wish Ireland once again and to use our platform to help raise vital funds and awareness for the incredible work they do.

"Nearly €600,000 has been raised through the generosity of the public in recent years and we look forward to another successful fundraising drive."

Make-A-Wish Ireland CEO Susan McQuaid-O’Dwyer said a wish could be a "turning point for a child and their family during an incredibly difficult time".

"Thanks to the generosity of the Irish public and partners like Newstalk, we were able to increase the number of wishes granted last year, but with over 300 children currently waiting, the need has never been greater," she said.

"We are asking people across Ireland to get involved, donate, and help us bring more hope, strength and joy to children who need it most.”

Make-A-Wish Ireland receives no Government funding and relies entirely on public support to continue to provide vital services for families.

Wishes are delivered as an integral part of a child’s treatment journey, helping to improve emotional wellbeing, create lasting family memories, and give children something positive to focus on during challenging times.

As part of Wish Week 2026, The Walt Disney Company Ireland will once again support the campaign through matched funding of up to €30,000, doubling the impact of public donations.

The public are encouraged to support Wish Week by donating or fundraising in their communities or workplaces. Listeners can follow the presenters’ plans and challenges throughout the week by tuning in to Newstalk, visiting Newstalk.com, or keeping up with the action across the station’s social media channels.

Every cent raised by Make-A-Wish Ireland will help grant life changing wishes for the children who need them the most.

Be part of something truly meaningful. Join us in bringing light to these journeys. You can donate online at makeawish.ie/donate.