Caring@UnchainedFoundation.org

Donate now
Unchained Foundation Logo
Donate now

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Find answers to common questions about Unchained Foundation’s programs, application process, eligibility, and how we support adults facing life altering illness.

apply for a wish
nominate someone

Have Questions? We’re Here to Help

Explore our FAQs to learn more about how Unchained Foundation supports adults with life altering illness, how to apply, and how you can get involved.

Furthermore, if you have any additional questions, feel free to reach out to us directly at:

contact us
What does Unchained Foundation offer?
  • We are offering individuals diagnosed with a life altering or life-limiting illness the opportunity to fulfill a heartfelt desire or hope through our Unchained program.
  • The desire or hope, known as the “Want,” must come directly from the individual.
  • The spectrum of requests can encompass  anything from everyday delights like a family dinner to more extravagant experiences.
  • The Unchained applicant must be capable of communicating their request and understanding/participating in their chosen experience.
  • Certain requests outlined on the cover page of the application may not be grantable by the Unchained Foundation.
  • Tell us about yourself. Share a little bit about your journey, your dreams, and what brings you hope.
  • Describe the wish or moment you would love to experience. What would make you smile, bring you peace, or feel most connected to your loved ones?
  • Explain why this moment matters to you. How would it impact your life and the lives of the people who care about you?
  • Give us a glimpse into your story. Feel free to include personal examples or memories that help us understand your heart and the significance of your wish.
  • Be as detailed as you feel comfortable. The more you share, the more we can truly honor your story and create something meaningful just for you.
  • Patients pursuing active treatment can apply.
  • Being a hospice patient is not a requirement to receive desired services.
  • Both hospice and non-hospice patients can access the application process.
  • Residency within the Texas is required.
  • Citizenship status must be that of the United States.
  • The Unchained applicant or their power of attorney must sign the application, ensuring it reflects the patient’s own desires.
  • The letter of hope and desire can be written by anyone, but must mirror the applicant’s request.
  • The applicant must be capable of communicating their wishes; assistance cannot be provided if the patient is unconscious or unresponsive.
  • The organization will work with the doctor to determine eligibility.
  • If denied based on the provided life expectancy, the applicant can have Step 4 completed again by the doctor within a year.
  • If preferred, the applicant can have the doctor mail or fax Step 4 (Medical Information) separately.
  • Application processing takes approximately three weeks before verification begins.
  • Verification duration varies, ranging from a few days to months, depending on medical team/doctor response times.
  • Allow approximately three weeks to arrange air travel once the desired wish is being worked on, as last-minute flights tend to be more expensive.
  • Requests are addressed promptly, but cannot be expedited for reasons other than medical necessity.
  • Not filing taxes is acceptable; inform us of this status and provide supporting documents like SSI, disability statements, or bank statements if possible.
  • Applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis, focusing on those in the greatest need who are unable to apply independently.
  • Each application is evaluated individually, considering factors such as taxable income, household size, geographic location, and indications of financial hardship mentioned in the application letter.
  • A major credit card or debit card with sufficient funds is required for expenses such as meals, ground transportation, and emergency costs associated with hospital stays and returning home.
  • We do not request your credit card number.
  • If your request involves a hotel stay, a credit card is necessary at check-in for incidentals. Note that if using a debit card, the hotel may place a hold on funds, which could take about a week to be released after your stay.
  • A valid government-issued photo ID is necessary.
  • Medical approval from your doctor is required for travel. Additional paperwork will be faxed to your doctor to assess your medical needs and ensure clearance for travel.

The Unchained applicant may include:

  • One adult caregiver
  • Children under the age of 18 who live in the same household
  • If medically necessary, a second caregiver may be included with a doctor’s recommendation.

 

Caregivers do not have to be family members — they can be anyone who provides meaningful support.

 

Additional individuals beyond the designated caregiver and children will be responsible for planning and covering their own travel and related costs.

  • There is no set time limit for you to stay with family or for family to stay with you.
  • If hotel accommodations are necessary, coverage is provided for 3-4 nights in one hotel room only.
  • When bringing family to you, coverage includes 1-2 tickets for flights or gas money for one vehicle.
  • When visiting family, coverage includes you, your caregiver, and your children under 18 who reside with you.
  • We do not provide assistance for special medical needs, including ambulance transportation, oxygen, medical equipment, nurses, aides, dialysis, etc.
  • Arrangements for hospice care away from home, dialysis treatments, or oxygen needs cannot be facilitated by our organization.
  • In the event of a medical emergency during your stay, we are unable to provide assistance. Please seek medical help at the nearest local hospital or call 911.
  • We do not facilitate requests to meet celebrities.
  • Assistance with desires involving meeting celebrities is not provided by our organization.
  • Life expectancy of two months or less classifies the desire or hope as an emergency.
  • Emergency requests can be faxed in, but the original application must still be mailed.
  • Contact us for the fax number.
  • Emergency requests are processed immediately upon receipt and verified as quickly as possible.
  • For bedside gathering or similar emergencies, turnaround time may be within 24 to 48 hours.
  • If travel by the applicant is necessary for an emergency wish, road trips within limited boundaries may be considered.
  • Requests for adults with chronic illnesses, except those with a prognosis of 12 months or less.
  • Requests from individuals residing outside the U.S. and Puerto Rico.
  • Surprise requests.
  • Cruises.
  • Legal assistance.
  • Cash or financial aid.
  • Hunting.
  • Reimbursements.
  • Funeral arrangements or posthumous requests.
  • Automobiles, lifts, repairs, RVs, or rentals.
  • Travel outside of the U.S. and Puerto Rico, except for one-way travel for patients wishing to die at home, evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
  • Property, home improvements, repairs, or housing aid.
  • Medical treatment, supplies, equipment, or transport.
  • Any request violating Unchained Foundation policy, U.S. or Texas state laws, or corporate partner rules, policies, or procedures.

Turning dreams into cherished memories.

We help families create memories that will shine through even the darkest times.

apply for a wish
Donate now