#United States #Charlotte #fundraising #Make-A-Wish #Harris Teeter

Celebrating a Milestone: $1 Million for Wishes

On September 25, 2025, a significant achievement was commemorated by Make-A-Wish Central & Western North Carolina (CWNC) and Harris Teeter. Together, they celebrated surpassing the remarkable fundraiser milestone of raising over $1 million since initiating their partnership in 2013. This substantial amount has been instrumental in fulfilling more than 100 heartfelt wishes for children battling critical illnesses in the region.

The Power of Community and Commitment

This milestone stands as a powerful reminder of the impact community partnerships can have. Harris Teeter's dedication shines through this initiative, highlighting their commitment to bringing joy, strength, and hope to children and families who are navigating difficult health challenges. Danna Robinson, the director of corporate affairs and customer relations at Harris Teeter, remarked, “This milestone reflects Harris Teeter's ongoing commitment to supporting our communities. We’re proud of the difference we’ve made alongside Make-A-Wish and look forward to continuing our work together to bring even more wishes to life.”

The funds raised are crucial, enabling the Make-A-Wish Foundation to grant transformational experiences that go beyond the usual. Wishes granted have included everything from dream vacations to meetings with their heroes, offering children a chance to create priceless memories and feel a renewed sense of hope and strength in their journey.

A Lasting Impact Through Events and Activities

Harris Teeter actively supports Make-A-Wish through various initiatives, including engaging events with vendor partners. One standout event is the annual fall cornhole tournament, blending spirited competition with the meaningful cause of making children's wishes come true. This year, Chris Webber from Make-A-Wish expressed gratitude for Harris Teeter’s contributions, stating, “Surpassing the $1 million mark means more than just a number – it represents real wishes granted, real hope delivered, and real joy experienced by the children and families we serve.”

These fundraising endeavors showcase how a grocery store chain can influence lives beyond the shopping cart. They serve to remind communities that through participating and giving back, they become a part of something greater than themselves.

The Significance of Wishes in Children's Lives

The influence of fulfilling a wish is profound. Research indicates that children who have their wishes granted demonstrate improved physical and emotional strength, which is critical while fighting illnesses. In 2024 alone, Make-A-Wish Central & Western North Carolina granted the wishes of 430 children, adding to a staggering total of over 6,500 wishes since its inception in 1985. This data underlines the foundation's mission: every child eligible for a wish deserves a moment of happiness and joy during challenging times.

Every wish granted symbolizes hope, providing children with a transformative experience that resonates through their journey towards recovery. It’s about healing, happiness, and community support that intertwines beautifully to bring smiles to many young faces.

About the Organizations

Make-A-Wish Central & Western North Carolina

Make-A-Wish Central & Western North Carolina passionately pursues the goal of bringing every eligible child's wish to life because every child deserves to experience the magic of childhood. This mission empowers children, offering them a sense of renewal and encouragement through their ongoing health struggles. You can learn more about their impact at nc.wish.org.

Harris Teeter

Harris Teeter has been a community staple for over 60 years, enriching lives one meal, one family, and one community at a time. Based in Matthews, NC, the company operates more than 250 stores, employing 36,000 associates across a broad geographic area, including North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and beyond. Their commitment to community support and engagement continues to set a benchmark in the supermarket industry.

This milestone of raising over $1 million is not just celebratory; it’s a call to action for others to engage in volunteerism and community support initiatives that create long-lasting impacts on those in need.