EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) – More than 100 women from across El Paso gathered on May 3 in support of Make-A-Wish during this year’s Wish Society Tea, helping raise more than $70,000 to grant wishes for local children battling critical illnesses.
Organizers said the fundraiser will help make seven wishes come true for children in the El Paso community.
The event focused on raising awareness and support for families navigating serious medical challenges, while highlighting the emotional impact wish experiences can have on children and their families.
“This event is such a beautiful reminder of what can happen when women in our community come together with a shared purpose,” said Tracey Yellen, CEO of the Paso Del Norte Community Foundation and regional committee chair for Make-A-Wish El Paso, in a statement released after the event to KTSM.
Guests at the annual tea heard stories from local wish families and organizers about the growing demand for support, with dozens of El Paso-area children still waiting for wishes to be granted.
According to Make-A-Wish, research shows wish experiences can help children build emotional resilience while undergoing treatment for critical illnesses.
The organization has granted hundreds of thousands of wishes worldwide since its founding in 1980.
The fundraiser comes as community support for Make-A-Wish continues to grow in the Borderland.
Earlier this month, KTSM announced it will serve as the official media partner for the 2026 Walk for Wishes event in El Paso, which aims to raise additional funds and awareness for local children facing critical illnesses.
Organizers for both events say community involvement remains critical as Make-A-Wish works to fulfill every eligible child’s wish in the El Paso region.