Child's Play Charity Kicks Off Toy And Game Drive

Officials representing the Child's Play Charity, a gamer-focused toy drive organized by web-comic Penny Arcade, have announced that the event has begun its annual toy and video game drive. The charity, now in its fourth year, has over the last year expanded to now consist of a growing network of 28 children’s hospitals to which it donates, both within and outside of the United States. Organizers note that the drive is attempting to raise money through a variety of means, including a charity auction dinner, as well as through the sale of Child’s Play t-shirts and holiday cards, and that all proceeds from the drive will be donated to hospitals within the Child's Play network. Last year, the charity dinner raised an impressive $82,100, while the drive amassed over $420,000 in donations. This year's dinner is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, December 13. According to representatives, the charity has over its lifetime raised nearly 1.2 million dollars in toys, books, movies, games, game hardware and game systems intended for sick children in hospitals. Contributions of new games, toys and other entertainment resources for children to enjoy can made at the official Child's Play website, and those wishing to participate can select a specific hospital and browse a wish list to see what items are desired for patients. Alternatively, cash donations can be made through PayPal. “There are so many gamers out there with big hearts,” commented Penny Arcade’s Robert Khoo. “The grassroots Child Play initiative that started out in Seattle has grown now to include hospitals across the U.S. as well as international locations from Canada to Egypt. It gives me yet another reason to be proud to say ‘I’m a gamer.’”