New Hope for Kids – Center for Grieving Children & Wishes for Kids Program

New Hope for Kids – Center for Grieving Children & Wishes for Kids operates two core programs: the Center for Grieving Children and Wishes for Kids. The David C. Joswick Center for Grieving Children provides a safe and supportive environment where children grieving the death of a loved one can share their experience with others facing the same feelings of loss. The Wishes for Kids program grants wishes to children diagnosed with a life-threatening illness.

• Ages: 3–18 years old

Established in 1996, New Hope for Kids is described as the largest independent child-based grief support program in Central Florida and a community fueled resource providing grief support and granting wishes to children with life-threatening illnesses. Its mission focuses on delivering hope, healing, and joy to families grappling with grief or life-threatening conditions through these two core programs. The organization is described as bringing hope, healing, and happiness to children and families through comprehensive grief support, life-enriching wishes, and community-driven events. New Hope for Kids has been honored by the Maitland City Council on Children’s Grief Awareness Day, receives support from the Orlando Magic Youth Foundation and corporate partners, won the First Winter Park Health Foundation Grant Challenge Showcase, was selected for EBI’s Empowering Good Initiative, and was selected as the 2026 Goodness Gala Recipient.

Last updated June 2, 2026.