The Walt Disney World specialty license plate just hit a major milestone in raising $5 million for Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida. The pixie dusted state plate has helped grant wishes for more than 600 kids with critical illnesses — including Maddie’s, a wish kid from Melbourne who is battling leukemia and wished to spend a day with Disney royalty.
A Disney Princess Wish Come True
A Disney wish is granted every hour of every day, and this one was filled with so much adventure thanks to several of the most beloved Disney heroes and heroines.
As a big fan of princesses, 10-year-old Maddie wanted to spend some time with them. Once they heard the news, the royal court planned the best day ever, starting with a welcome from Rapunzel and Flynn at Magic Kingdom. They rode Prince Charming Regal Carrousel together, searched for everyone’s favorite rascal, Pascal, and played hide and seek all throughout Fantasyland.
Maddie even got to show off her inner strength by pulling THE sword out of the stone… a feat her dad attempted too, but the sword didn’t budge an inch.
Maddie’s royal day of fun also included a special journey under the sea, where she met Princess Ariel and Prince Eric. They talked all about Ariel’s gadgets, gizmos, whozits and whatzits, but Maddie’s favorite moment was learning Sebastian’s signature dance move: the crab walk.
“This trip to Walt Disney World means so much to our family and Maddie. It’s so special to see her playing and having fun with her sister around the parks. I can tell she’s just so happy to be here and doing something fun outside of the hospital,” Maddie’s mom said.
How did the Walt Disney World license plate help grant this wish?
100% of the proceeds from purchases of the Walt Disney World license plate go directly to Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida. The local chapter then uses the funds to grant wishes for Florida kids and their families.
The Disney plates — which feature the iconic Cinderella Castle atop a vibrant blue gradient background — have become one of the most popular in Florida, raising $5 million for Make-A-Wish since its debut and ranking among the state’s top 8 plates.
“We are so grateful for the Disney Specialty License Plate and how it helps grant wishes like Maddie’s — wishes that inspire hope, strength, and joy for the entire family during some of their darkest times,” said Anne Cuba, President and CEO of Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida. “A Disney wish has the power to transform a child’s life. We always say that wishes are more than just a moment, they mark a turning point in a child’s journey and provide memories for years to come.”
Disney and Make-A-Wish have teamed up for more than 45 years to grant wishes around the world. More than 170,000 Disney wishes have come true over that time – whether through individual wishes like Maddie’s or through large-scale events like Once Upon A Wish Party, where dozens of Disney Princess wishes are granted at one time.
How to Purchase the Walt Disney World License Plate
More Disney license plates on the road means more wishes granted for Florida families.
Florida drivers can purchase a Walt Disney World specialty license plate at any Florida DMV or local County Tax Collector’s Office (online or in person).
Learn more about how to bring a little extra magic to your vehicle while helping wish families across the state on the Disney in Florida site.