Nite to Unite charity auction in full swing

The sixth annual computer and videogame online charity auction has begun; running until October 14th on eBay and sponsored by the Entertainment Software Association.

Helping to raise funds for children's charities and featuring a wealth of games industry memorabilia, exclusive promotional items and goods autographed by key industry figures, the online auction is a prelude to the Nite to Unite charity dinner, to be held at the Westin St. Francis Hotel in San Francisco on October 18th.

Auction items include a Star Wars Skywalker Lightsaber signed by George Lucas, a PS2 signed by the cast of the hit show Alias, 2 passes to the E3 Expo in 2006 plus entry into either the Sony or Nintendo of America parties and a lifesize statue of Halo 2's Master Chief, amongst many others.

ESA president Douglas Lowenstein commented: " "We're delighted that the deep commitment of the computer and video game industry to help children's charities has allowed us to raised close to $7 million to date through our 'Nite to Unite for Kids' dinner and online auctions."

"We hope that the game community will join us once again this year to help kids by bidding early and often on the terrific exclusive items found on eBay from October 7 to October 14," he added.

Created by the American interactive entertainment software industry to support and provide opportunities that can make a difference in the lives of America's youth, the ESA Foundation is fully supported by proceeds from A Nite to Unite for Kids.

Co-chairs of this year's event, which will see George Lucas honoured with the ESA's 2005 Champions Award, include Jim Ward, president, LucasArts and David Zucker, president and CEO, Midway Games.