THE VENDING MACHINE
THAT DISPENSES HOPE
The #LightTheWorld Giving Machines are different from typical vending machines. Instead of a candy bar, you can provide essential items such as clothing, medicine, food, even livestock, and more.
The Giving Machine dispenses a receipt for the amount you donated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Light the World Initiative?
Light the World, an annual Christmas initiative, invites everyone to celebrate the meaning and spirit of the Christmas season by serving others.
What is a Giving Machine?
One component of this initiative is the unique red vending machines, appropriately called Giving Machines. Light the World Giving Machines provide a fun, memorable, and in-person experience for the public to give to those in need. The Giving Machine is a gift to the community from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
What makes this initiative so unique?
Instead of buying candy or snacks for themselves, Giving Machines let people purchase an item for someone else—across town or around the world. After payment, a card representing the item drops into an enclosed display bin. The generous donor then leaves with a digital receipt and a feeling of joy and gratitude no candy bar can match.
What can I purchase (or donate) from a Giving Machine?
Light The World Giving Machines offer a variety of essential items to assist those in need, such as food (meals and groceries), shelter, personal hygiene kits, soccer balls, clean water, clothing, beds, educational assistance, medical/eye/dental care, immunizations, personal development, counseling services, and even ducks.
What are the payment options?
Giving Machines accept credit card and mobile payments only (Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.).
How are operational costs covered?
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints underwrites all operational costs and credit card transaction fees as a gift to the worldwide community. This support ensures every donated penny goes to its intended purpose.
How are Giving Machine donations used?
Participating organizations receive 100% of the collected funds and an itemized list of donor purchases. These organizations then acquire and deliver the goods and services to those in need. In some cases, substitutions for purchased items may be necessary to meet greater demand; however, substituted items must remain in the same category as the original purchase.
How much have Light The World Giving Machines raised?
Since the first Giving Machine launched in 2017, hundreds of thousands of people have generously contributed more than $22 million (USD) to assist those in need.
What items or charities require the most donations?
Every participating organization has pressing needs. Feel free to research our charitable partners to find the one that compels you to give.
Where can I find a Giving Machine?
Light The World Giving Machines are in select cities throughout the world — Click here.