The key mission of the Make-A-Wish Foundation is to grant the wishes of children who have been diagnosed with life threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy.

Each year, the Melbourne Branch of the organisation holds a Christmas Party at Horseshoe Bend Farm, Keilor. This year, the event will be held on Sunday 28th November from noon until 4pm.

Having supported the Make-A-Wish Children’s Christmas Party last year, the Barry Plant Group is once again looking forward to being a part of the 2010 event. An extremely popular celebration for the Wish children and their families, the family day is expected to attract approximately 200 kids including siblings of the Wish children. Each child will receive a very special Christmas present when Santa comes to visit.

The organisation, with the support of their sponsors will provide a BBQ lunch, beverages and ice creams for all attending. There will also be a number of activities including Harley Davison motor bike rides, a jumping castle, face painting and exciting guest appearances by everyone’s favourite, Humphrey B. Bear along with two Disney characters. The famous animal farm at Horseshoe Bend Farm will also be open for the children to enjoy.

Originating in the United States in 1980, the Make-A-Wish Foundation grew from the dreams of a young boy called Christopher Greicius, who had leukaemia and wanted to be a patrolman. His dream came true and after he passed away, his mother Linda Bergendahl-Pauling, helped form Make-A-Wish. Since this time, Make-A-Wish has developed into a worldwide organisation with over 35 affiliates across the globe.

Make-A-Wish Australia was founded in 1985 after two Australian’s heard a speech that would forever change their lives. Since that time, Make-A-Wish Australia has granted over 6,300 wishes to Australian children with a life-threatening medical condition and aged between 3 and 18. Today it is a national charity with over 1200 volunteers and 59 branches.

For further information about making a donation, volunteer work, or to support the Make-A-Wish Foundation please visit www.makeawish.org.au