The Entertainment Software Association Foundation (ESAF) today announced a new partnership with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals (CMN Hospitals) to raise money for nonprofit children’s hospitals across North America.

The organizations are collaborating on a nationwide fundraiser called Extra Life, a 24-hour video game marathon. ESAF and CMN Hospitals are encouraging players to participate in the October 20 event as individuals or on teams and to ask sponsors to contribute funds that will support a Children’s Miracle Network Hospital of their choice.

Extra Life was established in 2008, and has brought together thousands of gamers and raised more than $2 million. The funds help to provide life-saving treatment, medical equipment, research and charitable care.

‘The passion and commitment of video game players to raise money for our member children’s hospitals has made a tremendous difference for thousands of kids,’ said John Lauck, president and CEO of CMNH. ‘We’re excited for this year’s Extra Life marathon, and thrilled to have the ESA Foundation and the video game industry’s support for this important event.’

ESAF, which serves as the American computer and video game industry’s philanthropic arm, works to provide opportunities that make a difference in the lives of America’s youth. ESAF will collaborate with leading video game companies and leverage social media to invite thousands of players across the United States to join the fundraiser.

‘Video games can entertain, educate, and heal. It is a natural extension then that we utilize this remarkable medium to raise funds and awareness for America’s network of children’s hospitals,’ said Jenny Lai, vice president of ESAF. ‘We are proud to be a part of this collective effort to advance medical research.’

For more information about Extra Life and to register, visit www.extra-life.org or visit http://videogamevoters.org/pages/extra_life_registration.