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

New Hope for Kids – Center for Grieving Children & Wishes for Kids offers two core programs: the Center for Grieving Children and the Wishes for Kids Program. 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 as 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 its two core programs. It is described as bringing hope, healing, and happiness to children and families through comprehensive grief support, life-enriching wishes, and community-driven events, and is a not-for-profit, section 501(c)(3). The organization has been honored by the Maitland City Council on Children’s Grief Awareness Day, received support from the Orlando Magic Youth Foundation, won the First Winter Park Health Foundation Grant Challenge Showcase, and was selected for EBI’s Empowering Good Initiative.

Last updated June 2, 2026.