MONROE – The New York Giants announced the third day of the team’s draft selections from the Samuel & Josephine Plumeri Wishing Place, home of Make-A-Wish New Jersey, in Monroe
Big Blue joined Wish Kids and their family members on April 27 for a day filled with games, music, food and fun, according to information provided by Make-A-Wish New Jersey.
Throughout the day, the selections of the fourth through sixth rounds by the Giants were broadcast from the balcony of the Make-A-Wish castle. Among the many highlights was a surprise meeting between star running back Saquon Barkley and 14-year-old Jared, whose wish was to meet the Offensive Rookie of the Year.
Barkley and the Giants also shared with Jared that this fall, he will spend an exciting weekend with the team at a practice and a home game – a VIP treatment the Giants have continued to provide to wish children like Jared for years, according to the statement.
The celebration also included special visits from other Giant players—tight end Evan Engram, offensive tackle Nate Solder, tackle Chad Wheeler and offensive guard Will Hernandez.
The Giants have been deeply involved with Make-A-Wish for decades, creating life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses throughout New Jersey and across the country. In 2013, they were recognized for their commitment to the Make-A-Wish mission and honored with the Chris Greicius Celebrity Award, according to the statement.
“Our special relationship with the New York Football Giants has always been one we hold in the highest regard,” Tom Weatherall, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish New Jersey, said in the statement. “Simply put, they have long set the bar for excellence when called upon to grant wishes. The Giants have always been there for us and for our mission, and we are honored to call them our friends. Our wish families were thrilled to be part of today’s festivities, and to welcome Big Blue back to the castle.”
Since 1983, Make-A-Wish New Jersey has created life-changing wishes for more than 10,000 children in the Garden State. Make-A-Wish New Jersey granted a record 560 wishes in its most recent fiscal year, according to the statement.
For more information, visit nj.wish.org.