Kars4Kids, the nationally recognized car-donation program, has received a generous, unique donation from The Estate of Dave Cockrum. But it wasn't the artist's car. Hundreds of comic books, from the personal collection of the man who co-created many characters from Marvel Entertainment's X-Men franchise, were given to Kars4Kids to benefit children.

"Dave loved to help people-he was generous to a fault," said Paty Cockrum, widow of the popular artist who died in 2006 from complications resulting from diabetes. "He was extremely happy that the characters he created-such as Storm, Colossus and Nightcrawler-became a part of the childhood memories of millions of children. He knew that was his legacy."

The donated comics were part of Cockrum's personal collection. "I'm delighted that more kids will benefit from them," said Mrs. Cockrum.

Kars4Kids.org is a national organization providing for the spiritual, emotional and practical needs of children from impoverished or dysfunctional families. The national, 501(c)(3), non-profit organization was established in 2000.

For more information, contact Josh Smith at 732-730-8595, ext. 108.