War Child, an UK-based organization that provides assistance to children in war-torn areas, has announced that they've raised over $250,000 in the second year of their War Child Armistice campaign in the video game community according to a press release.
The War Child Armistice campaign is an effort undertaken by the charity alongside game developers all over the world. Last year, the organization raised $122,000 in its inaugural run with the help of games like 11 Bit Studios' This War Of Mine. Typically, developers would create a special in-game event or piece of DLC that specifically benefits the charity. Donations were also accepted directly by the charity. The second time around has brought in more than twice the funds as the first year, totaling $260,904.82 raised to benefit children living in conflict zones.
The money raised by the organization is spent in various ways to solve the short-term problems that typically emerge during armed conflicts. Temporary schooling is sometimes set up to provide kids with education due to the damage or outright destruction of existing facilities. Humanitarian aid including supplies and reuniting families is also part of the organization's mission. Longer-term efforts include rebuilding schools, training teachers, and providing vocational training for displaced youth.
Initially founded in the UK in 1983, War Child has since expanded their operations to the United States, Canada, and The Netherlands. New gaming-focused campaigns under the monikers of RE-PLAY and HELP will be launched later in 2018 with the assistance of some of the biggest game developers in the world to lend aid to vulnerable children. If you'd like to donate or otherwise get involved with their efforts, you can head on over to their American website.
What do you think of War Child Armistice campaign to raise money for children in war zones through the gaming community? Which games do you think would be ideal for working with the organization? Let us know in the comments below!