8News kicks off Wishes in Flight telethon for Make-A-Wish

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- 8News and Make-A-Wish's Wishes in Flight telethon has arrived! Throughout the day, 8News viewers can donate unused air miles to kids with critical illnesses, allowing them to go on the trip of a lifetime.

The Make-A-Wish Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to giving children fighting critical illnesses the chance to realize some of their wildest dreams.

Data shows that the majority of local Make-A-Wish wishes involve traveling. To help cover these costs, 8News is asking viewers to donate their unused airline miles to help children and their families reach their destinations.

The telethon began at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 6, and will run until 6:30 p.m. To participate, viewers need to know the account number for their airline. Accepted airlines are Delta, United, Jet Blue or American.

Viewers can call the 8News donation line at 804-330-8880, where a volunteer will guide them through the next steps.

PREVIOUSLY: More than 700,000 miles donated to Make-A-Wish during 8News’ Wishes in Flight Telethon

Viewers who wish to instead donate online can go to Make a Wish’s website, select their airline, choose how many miles they’d like to donate and add their contact information.

Once miles are donated, they will never expire.

To see how donations are progressing, tune into 8News throughout the day!