If you asked any child what’s the best thing about being a kid, they’re likely to say the same thing – being able to have fun every day. 

While having fun seems like such an ordinary thing, for sick kids, their lives can be consumed by their illness.

This is a sad reality, but Starlight aims to help change that. Starlight breaks the relentless cycle of needles, treatments, pain and trauma and offers seriously sick children the opportunity to have fun and simply be a kid again. One of the ways they do this is through Starlight Wishes.

We’re proud to support Starlight’s vital work and today announced a $250,000 donation to bring joy to kids with serious illnesses and their families.

The donation from Golden Casket, part of The Lott, has been funded from unclaimed prize money. 

The donation will fund 38 Starlight Wishes. A Starlight Wish is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for a seriously ill child and their family. It gives them hope and an opportunity to forget about treatments and surgeries for a moment.

Starlight Children’s Foundation State Partnerships Manager Tracey Tomlin said the Foundation would be able to help more sick children thanks to The Lott’s support.

“During this time of rapid change, there are no fewer sick kids. Starlight’s vision is for a future where everyone has a happy childhood, even when they experience serious illness or hospitalisation,” she explained.

“What happens in childhood lasts a lifetime and happiness matters, especially when it comes to improving health outcomes. 

“Grounded in principles of positive psychology, Starlight’s Wishgranting program is vital for improving the wellbeing and resilience of sick kids in the community. 

“We are so thankful for The Lott’s support of more than 12 years which helps us bring joy to sick kids now and in the future.”

The Lott General Manager Andrew Shepherd said Starlight’s Wishgranting program gave hope to children living with serious illnesses and their families. 

“We have a long history of supporting important health initiatives within our communities, and we’re proud to continue that tradition through our donation to Starlight,” he said.

“Starlight helps sick kids and their families take a much-needed break and find light in the darkest of times. 

“It’s a privilege to play a part in brightening the lives of sick children and their families.”