FAQS
How does HACS define a family with respect to event tickets and Give Kids the World?
We understand that there are single, blended and other types of families.
"Family", for the purposes of the distribution of tickets to HACS sponsored activities, including the trips to GKTW village, consists of the parents/caregivers (maximum 2 adults) of the child with cancer as well the minor siblings of the child. The Board of Directors may, at its discretion, consider entitlement on a case by case basis.
The complimentary event tickets can be shared amongst extended family members, or additional tickets can be purchased at the gate for most events.
For Give Kids the World, Florida, the HACS travel agent will assist with making arrangements for your additional travelers, however, HACS will not be responsible for the additional associated costs. .
"Family", for the purposes of the distribution of tickets to HACS sponsored activities, including the trips to GKTW village, consists of the parents/caregivers (maximum 2 adults) of the child with cancer as well the minor siblings of the child. The Board of Directors may, at its discretion, consider entitlement on a case by case basis.
The complimentary event tickets can be shared amongst extended family members, or additional tickets can be purchased at the gate for most events.
For Give Kids the World, Florida, the HACS travel agent will assist with making arrangements for your additional travelers, however, HACS will not be responsible for the additional associated costs. .
Does HACS have sufficient funds to continue to offer the year round event tickets and trips to Florida for all families going through childhood cancer?
Unfortunately, children are being diagnosed with cancer at an increasing rate, and it is challenging to keep up with the needs of our families.
How does HACS conduct fundraising?
Various events are held throughout our geographical region. Please see the event calendar for a fundraiser near you.
Does HACS send families to Give Kids the World Village in Florida?
Yes. We try to send as many families as we can to Florida. The trip includes limosene ride to the airport, rental car, 7 days at Give Kids the World Village to include attraction tickets to DisneyWorld, Universal Gardens, SeaWorld, Kennedy Space Centre, and more!
What else does HACS provide for families who’s child has cancer?
We provide televisions during hospital stays, provide parking passes, phone cards and food vouchers for newly diagnosed families who sometimes spend a month in hospital. We support the Bravery Bead Program – one bead is given to the child every time they are poked, transfused, given chemo, etc. Some treatment protocols are 2 years in length, with treatment once or twice a week. That's a lot for a child to go through, and the beads tell their story.
Does HACS grant wishes?
No, HACS is not a wish organization. We are not about one single wish for the child with cancer (other organizations take care of that for the children). Because this horrible disease affects not only the child, but the entire family unit, HACS provides family events year round so that there is always something to look forward to. ……. We are there for families during the entire journey. We provide complimentary tickets to events such as:
- Disney on Ice in March
- a fishing derby in June
- Canada’s Wonderland in July
- Marineland
- Merrittville Speedway in August
- African Lion Safari and the Blue Jays in September
- And a Christmas Party in early December
What are the limitations of membership, if any, for families to be supported by HACS?
Children under the age of 18, and diagnosed/treated for cancer at McMaster Children’s Hospital, are welcome to become members of Help A Child Smile.
Where do the families that HACS supports live?
Our Families live in a broad geographical area, stretching from Niagara to Simcoe, north to Arthur, across to Oakville and everything in between.
