The Make-A-Wish Foundation disputes a misinformation campaign that claimed children not vaccinated against COVID-19 would be eligible for their wishes.These children, according to the foundation, are still eligible.A video edited by Richard Davis, CEO of Make-A-Wish Foundation, went viral over the weekend. It seemed to suggest that wishes could only be granted to vaccinated children. Actor Rob Schneider, as well as many donors, declared that they would not support the foundation granting wishes to children who aren't vaccinated if it didn't.This confusion resulted from the fact that Davis' explanation of eligibility in the 22-second, two-minute video clip went viral was cut before he had finished. Make-A-Wish delayed granting wishes to some children, regardless of whether they were vaccinated.The video was sent out on June 9 to families of Make-A-Wish kids and foundation volunteers. It informed them that certain wishes, such as those that involve large crowds or air travel, will be granted again in September. They could also begin planning to fulfil them. Unvaccinated children's wishes that are considered risky at the moment will be held until medical guidance changes.Davis states that we respect everyone's right to choose, but he admits that there may be children too young or too sick to get vaccinated. We cannot wait to grant more life-changing wishes when we reach Sept. 15.The foundation released a simple statement to clarify misinformation and falsehoods in social media and other media outlets.Make-Awish does not, will not or will deny wishes to children not vaccinated. Make-Awish will continue to grant wishes for children who aren't vaccinated.Continue the storyAccording to the foundation, it was expecting some backlash over its decision not to grant wishes to Make-A-Wish kids. It made this decision because it listened to medical experts and did what was right in the best interests of all of our wish families.The foundation has granted more than 6,500 wishes to families and children since the outbreak of the pandemic.The foundation stated that it is continuing to work with Make-A-Wish children to reimagine their wishes. It stressed that every child suffering from a serious illness or disability is eligible for a wish.In time-sensitive situations, such as an end-of life diagnosis, the child's current vaccination status will not be considered. A special process will be used to honor the child's wishes.___The Lilly Endowment provides support to the Associated Press for reporting on philanthropy, nonprofits, and other topics. All content is the responsibility of The Associated Press. All APs coverage on philanthropy can be found at https://apnews.com/hub/philanthropy.
