TRUMBULL— Wednesday, April 29, 2020 marks the 40th anniversary of the wish that inspired the founding of Make-A-Wish, the organization that creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses worldwide. The initial wish paved the way for Make-A-Wish Connecticut to be created in 1986.

Now, more than ever, Make-A-Wish Connecticut remains committed to delivering hope to wish kids and their families despite an unprecedented number of wishes waiting to be granted. As a result, Make-A-Wish chapters and affiliates worldwide are using April 29, recognized annually as World Wish Day, to launch “Wishes Need Stars Like You” — a new campaign that rallies the collective star power of everyday people and corporate sponsors who help wish kids and their families when they need it most.

The Connecticut Chapter will commemorate World Wish Day with two events: Hartford Mayor Luke Bronin will issue a proclamation declaring April 29 World Wish Day. In honor of this proclamation, the Stilts Building, 20 Church Street in Hartford, will be turning Make-A-Wish blue at 6:30 pm (or dusk).

Also, a World Wish Day Parade will honor wish kid Daniela, whose wish to go to Disney for her birthday in March had to be postponed until next year. Participating in the parade will be the Stratford Police Department, EMS team, and Fire Department, as well as more than 40 cars, plus a classic car club and Fire Engine Pizza Truck.

The town departments showering wish kid Daniela with the spirit of hope will be held in the parking lot of the Shakespeare Theater, 320 Shore Road, Stratford, at approximately 4:30 pm, April 29.

Make-A-Wish® Connecticut creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. They seek to bring every eligible child’s wish to life because a wish is an integral part of a child’s treatment journey. Research shows children who have wishes granted can build the physical and emotional strength they need to fight a critical illness. Together, generous donors, supporters, staff and volunteers across the state currently grant nearly 250 wishes a year. Since 1986, Make-A-Wish Connecticut has granted more than 3,300 wishes to local children.

For more information about Make-A-Wish Connecticut, visit ct.wish.org.