When a child is seriously ill, their lives are consumed by hospitals and treatments. Rather than spending their days laughing and having fun, they’re faced with the daily pain, fear and stress of their illness. 

And while their physical health is vital, happiness matters for sick kids, too.

That’s why Starlight introduced its Wishgranting program— an initiative dedicated to brightening the lives of sick children across Australia. 

A Starlight Wish is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for a sick child and their family. It provides a positive distraction, helps kids to feel empowered, and offers a break from the monotony of hospital life. The Starlight Wish program is based on positive psychology principles that demonstrate how fun can positively impact a child’s overall health and wellbeing. 

We’re proud to support Starlight’s vital work and today announced a $250,000 donation that will fund 38 Starlight Wishes. The donation from Golden Casket, part of The Lott, has been funded from unclaimed prize money. 

Starlight Children’s Foundation State Partnerships Manager Tracey Tomlin said the Foundation would be able to help an additional 38 sick kids rediscover the joy of childhood, thanks to The Lott by Golden Casket’s support. 

“A Starlight Wish is a once-in-a-lifetime gift of hope that provides the sick child and their family with something exciting to look forward to, at the toughest of times,” she said. 

“It allows them to forget about their illness and focus on creating beautiful memories that will last a lifetime. 

“We are so grateful for The Lott’s amazing support which allows us to provide more incredible gifts of happiness to sick kids and their families.” 

The Lott General Manager Andrew Shepherd said Starlight’s Wishgranting program focused on harnessing positivity, fun and laughter to improve overall health and wellbeing. 

“Every child should have a positive childhood experience filled with laughter and happiness. Being sick shouldn’t mean missing out on that,” he said. 

“Thanks to Starlight, seriously sick kids can forget about their illness for a moment and instead, focus on just having fun. 

“We are proud to support Starlight by making this $250,000 donation which will allow Starlight to grant more seriously ill kids’ wishes. 

“These wishes are often some of the brightest moments for a child growing up with a serious illness, and we are honoured to help 38 sick kids’ dreams come true.” 

Today’s $250,000 donation continues The Lott’s long-standing support of Starlight Children’s Foundation.