‘Happiness’, ‘joy’, and ‘life-changing.’ These are just a few of the words used to describe the impact of the Starlight Wishgranting Program, bringing those warm feelings to seriously ill children and their families.

Starlight Children’s Foundation have been bringing happiness to seriously ill and hospitalised children through the Wishgranting Program since 1989, granting over 13,000 wishes.

To celebrate Starlight Day, The Lott by Golden Casket is proud to continue our long-standing support through a donation of $250,000, enabling more wishes to be granted.

Starlight knows that happiness in childhood lasts a lifetime. Positive psychology research shows happiness is integral to overall wellbeing and quality of life.  It matters in the moment, and it matters long term.

A Starlight Wish is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that provides a positive distraction, helps foster empowerment and provides a respite from the routine of hospital life. Its impact extends beyond the child and encompasses their family and community, providing a moment of joy and relief from the challenges they have faced.

Starlight Children’s Foundation QLD Partnerships Manager Danica Bennett said Starlight would be able to help more sick kids thanks to The Lott by Golden Casket’s support.

“Starlight Wishes are magical gifts that give sick kids something positive to look forward to during the toughest times,” she said.

“Wishes enable sick kids and their families to take a break from the stress of hospital and create new memories they’ll treasure forever. 

“Starlight relies on the community for support, and we’re so grateful for The Lott’s ongoing partnership, enabling us to support another 33 families with a lifechanging experience.”

The Lott Partnerships Manager Liz McPherson said the impact of the Starlight Wishgranting program is so valuable in providing normality and a sense of hope for the future.

“Every child deserves a life filled with joy and happiness, no matter what they are going through and that’s what makes Starlight’s mission invaluable,” she said.

"This $250,000 donation allows Starlight to continue to positively change the lives of these children and their families.”

Today’s donation continues The Lott’s long-standing support of Starlight Children’s Foundation.

The donation from Golden Casket, part of The Lott, has been funded by unclaimed prize money.