LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – A little magic on the road is making big dreams come true.
Florida’s Walt Disney World specialty plate has surpassed $5 million in donations to Make-A-Wish, making magical moments possible for children.
According to a news release, the pixie-dusted plate has helped grant wishes for more than 600 children with critical illnesses, including 10-year-old Maddie from Melbourne, who is battling leukemia and dreamed of spending a day with Disney royalty.
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Maddie, a big fan of Disney princesses, enjoyed an unforgettable day filled with adventure and magic. Her royal welcome began with Rapunzel and Flynn Rider at Magic Kingdom. Together, they rode the Prince Charming Regal Carrousel, searched for Pascal, and played hide and seek throughout Fantasyland.
One of Maddie’s proudest moments was pulling the sword from the stone—a feat her dad tried but couldn’t match. Her magical day continued under the sea, where she met Princess Ariel and Prince Eric.
“This trip to Walt Disney World means so much to our family and Maddie,” her mom said. “It’s special to see her playing and having fun with her sister. I can tell she’s just so happy to be here and doing something fun outside of the hospital.”
Every dollar from the Walt Disney World license plate goes directly to Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida. The funds help grant wishes for children and their families across the state.
The plate, featuring the iconic Cinderella Castle on a vibrant blue background, is one of Florida’s most popular specialty plates. It ranks among the state’s top eight plates.
“We are so grateful for the Disney Specialty License Plate and how it helps grant wishes like Maddie’s,” said Anne Cuba, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida. “Wishes inspire hope, strength, and joy during some of the darkest times. They mark a turning point in a child’s journey and create memories for years to come.”
A magical partnership
Disney and Make-A-Wish have teamed up for more than 45 years, granting over 170,000 wishes worldwide. These wishes range from individual dreams like Maddie’s to large-scale events such as the Once Upon A Wish Party, where dozens of Disney Princess wishes come true at once.
How to get your own Disney license plate
Florida drivers can purchase the Walt Disney World specialty license plate at any Florida DMV or local county tax collector’s office, either online or in person. Every plate on the road helps grant more wishes for Florida families.