‘An experience they’ll never forget’: Make-A-Wish partnership sends 19 families to Super Bowl LIX

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV/Gray News) - More than a dozen families from across the nation got to experience Sunday’s big game in style, thanks to a partnership between Make-A-Wish and Fanatics.

Make-A-Wish says 19 families made their way to New Orleans for an unforgettable Super Bowl LIX experience.

The families arrived on Wednesday and remained in News Orleans until after the game on Sunday.

According to the organization, 19 wish kids and their families traveled from nine different states.

Their slate of activities included a Make-A-Wish party at Dave & Buster’s, a behind-the-scenes tour at Caesars Superdome, a walk down the NFL Honors red carpet, cash surprises, entry into the Super Bowl experience, and more.

And over the weekend, organization leaders said the families were expected to attend the first-ever Super Bowl Host Committee Parade in the French Quarter.

“Nothing could be more inspiring than watching our kids and their families connect and create cherished memories at such an iconic event,” said Leslie Motter, president and CEO at Make-A-Wish America. “These families have faced unimaginable challenges, and we are honored to provide them with this - an experience they’ll never forget - thanks to our partners like NFL, Fanatics, and more.”

Make-A-Wish first entered into a partnership with Fanatics in 2024. Since then, more than 500 sports-related wishes have been granted, and the organization plans to expand.

Organization leaders noted that the connection between Make-A-Wish and the NFL started just after it was founded in 1980.

The first NFL-related wish was granted in 1982 when 12-year-old Paul Serna, of Arizona, was taken to Super Bowl XVI. Since then, more than 300 Super Bowl-related wishes have been granted.

For more information about how to get involved with Make-A-Wish, click HERE.

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