Yes, it’s a busy social season indeed. And there will be many smiling children with critical illnesses who will receive their true heartfelt wish...thanks to the generosity of those in attendance at the inaugural Wishes & Dishes event that was recently hosted by Make-A-Wish® Central & South Texas.

In fact, over $120,000 was raised throughout the evening as guests enjoyed fare from some of Austin’s favorite restaurants including: La Traviata, Jacoby’s Restaurant & Mercantile, La Condesa, Moonshine Bar & Grill, and Pink Avocado. Specialty cocktails were provided by Milestone Brands while innovative and traditional beers were provided by Karbach Brewing Company.

“If I could have any wish, it would be that we could grant the wish of every eligible child in Central and South Texas. Many times, the only thing that stands in the way of that is having the funds to do it,” said Governing Board Member and Publisher of Statesman Media, Susie Gray Biehle about the organization. Make-A-Wish President & CEO, Kathrin Brewer agrees and shares, “This year, we will grant 300 wishes to kids with critical illnesses. But we have so many more to reach. Seeing the compassion and kindness of those in attendance and in our community, there’s no doubt that together, we’ll reach that vision of granting a wish to each and every eligible child in central and south Texas.”

According to the organization, Make-A-Wish believes that wishes improve the odds for kids fighting critical illnesses, and has research proves it. It’s why they do what they do. Wishes are amazing and fun, but more than that, they inspire and have the power to improve lives. Wishes help kids look past their limitations, families overcome anxiety and entire communities experience joy.

For more information about Make-A-Wish Central & South Texas, visit www.cstx.wish.org.