Late last week, online gaming comic Penny Arcade launched its fourth annual Child's Play Charity event, which collects donations, toys, and video games for hospitals all over the country in the name of the video gaming community. In addition to 22 target hospitals in the United States, this year Child's Play has partner hospitals in Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Egypt.

Last year's drive raised over $605,000 for sick children, and we're hoping to smash that record total this winter. Check out the wish lists, read up on the local events and let's show the world what the gaming community is all about!

Each hospital has a link to either an Amazon wish list or a PayPal donation option. One hundred percent of all proceeds go directly to hospitals or gifts for hospitals. By sending books, toys, and games to hospitals, gamers can ensure that children who have serious illnesses or that are recovering from surgery have something to keep their spirits up. Recent published research from staff at Newark's University Hospital indicates that video games can reduce anxiety in surgery-bound patients as much as anesthesia. Games also provide entertainment and distractions for children who are in store for a long term hospital stay.

As last year, Penny Arcade will be holding a fundraiser dinner event to support the charity. It will occur on December 13, with more details to follow.