GamesAid to take over Entertainment Software Charity initiatives
Codemasters, Relentless, Eurogamer, Sony and more raising cash for good causes
Newly-formed charity GamesAid is to take over the operation of the Entertainment Software Charity, to follow through initiatives started by the ESC and continue its good work.
With GamesAid only officially launching in June, a number of companies including Sony, Codemasters, Relentless, Eurogamer and Gem have already begun raising money for good causes.
"We’re very happy that the set-up of GamesAid has now been completed, and we have agreed with the ESC to carry on some of their good work as well," commented Sarah Seaby, Trustee of GamesAid.
"I am really pleased that we have finalised this, as I have personally seen and supported the great work that has been done for charities in the UK and Africa, which has been truly amazing."
GamesAid, on behalf of the ESC, has paid the fourth of seven annual payments of GBP 214,000 to the United Learning Trust/ Paddington Academy. To help fundraising targets, Codemasters and Sony have agreed to re-release a limited edition of PS3 title Colin McRae DIRT.
Other successful fundraising activities so far have included a Games Industry Golf and Spa day organised by distributor Gem which raised GBP 21,000, the 3G clay pigeon shoot which netted GBP 4789, and a number of events from Codemasters which have so far raised GBP 28,178.
Brighton's Relentless Software has raised GBP 6267 by collecting donations at the Buzz! launch party and from a poker night held at Develop in Brighton.
"We are delighted to be able to contribute to the early GamesAid efforts by taking collections at our launch party," offered Andrew Eades of Relentless.
In August games website PS3 Attitude held a charity skydive and industry veteran Ian Livingstone has donated money from a recent IBM speech.
Upcoming events include the Eurogamer Expo, where the monies raised from ticket sales will be given to GamesAid, and a poker evening sponsored by PKR during the London Games Festival.
Those interested in fundraising or organising an event can visit gamesaid.org