The European Speedrunner Assembly’s winter charity event has come to a close, raising $85,000 for Make-A-Wish International after a successful weeklong speedrunning fundraiser.
This unique event took place live in Malmö, Sweden, and was streamed online globally, combining gaming with interactive fundraising. Viewers had the opportunity to donate and influence gameplay during speedruns, adding excitement and entertainment to the runs while also supporting a good cause.
Notably, Sonic the Hedgehog emerged as the most successful game for fundraising, setting a new record by raising over $7,200 in just two hours.
Empowering Young People
The funds collected by viewers of ESA have been contributed to Make-A-Wish International, an organization dedicated to fulfilling the wishes of children with critical illnesses worldwide. Since 1980, over half a million children have had their wishes granted.
Luciano Manzo, the President and CEO of Make-A-Wish International, highlighted the importance of gaming in uplifting children undergoing treatment for critical illnesses, providing them with a sense of escape and connection with others during difficult times.
“The donations from ESA Winter 2024 will continue to support these wishes and many more. We are immensely grateful to ESA and the gaming community for their contribution to making these wishes a reality,” said Manzo.
Since its establishment in 2012, ESA has raised over $1 million for various charitable causes.
Ida Lidholt, one of the organizers, expressed their excitement about the partnership with Make-A-Wish International, emphasizing how ESA Winter unites gamers and the community to raise funds for children facing critical illnesses. With a total of $85,000 raised, they thanked gamers and the community for their generous support.
Recently, Capcom and Square Enix also joined forces, donating over $1 million combined in relief funds to assist the victims of Japan’s Noto Peninsula earthquake.
