A campaign benefitting Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals was launched today by the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) Foundation and Extra Life. The ESA Foundation Extra Life Challenge encourages gamers’ fundraising efforts during the annual Extra Life 24-hour gaming marathon, and will provide $30,000 grants to the hospital whose players raise the most money and to the hospital with the highest per capita fundraising total. Since 2008, Extra Life has raised more than $14 million to help provide outstanding pediatric health care to every child in need, regardless of their family’s ability to pay.
“Video games have a tremendous ability to entertain, heal and bring us together. It is only natural that we leverage this power – and the gamer community’s generosity – to help raise funds for children’s hospitals,” said Rich Taylor, senior vice president of the ESA, the trade association that represents the U.S. video game industry. “ESA Foundation is dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of our nation’s youth, and we are proud to continue our partnership with Extra Life to support local communities across North America.”
“We’re thrilled to be working with the ESA Foundation again this year to bring this amazing challenge to the Extra Life Community. By combining our passion of playing games and helping sick and injured kids get better, we’re on pace to make 2015 our biggest and largest year yet,” said Mike Kinney, senior manager of Extra Life.
While gamers can sign up and start fundraising any time during the calendar year, Extra Life will host their official 2015 Game Day on Saturday, November 7. Those interested in participating can register on Extra Life’s website.
Created by the American entertainment software industry, the ESA Foundation works to make a positive difference in the lives of America’s youth. ESA Foundation creates educational opportunities by providing scholarships to the next generation of industry innovators and supporting organizations that leverage entertainment software and technology. The proceeds from a signature annual fundraiser, Nite to Unite – for Kids and other charitable initiatives support this mission. For more information, visit the ESA Foundation’s website or follow us on Twitter: @ESA Foundation.