Every holiday season, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints brings Giving Machines to communities around the world. They’re vending machines with a twist. Instead of walking away with a snack, you walk away knowing you’ve helped someone in need. Since their introduction in 2017, these charity vending machines have raised millions of dollars for local and global charities, with 100% of donations going directly to the organizations. All donations are audited to ensure that the aid reaches the intended recipients.
Here in Central Florida, the Giving Machine made its debut in 2024 at the Altamonte Mall and returned in 2025. We’ve had so much fun volunteering and watching little ones choose to donate a goat to someone overseas through Mentors International, college students decide to give a bedtime story to a child closer to home through North Brevard Charities, or even those who took the “777 Challenge”…and donated one of everything!
Want to join in? You still can! Each year, Giving Machines pop up in cities across the U.S. and around the world. You can find the nearest Giving Machines locations on the official Light the World Giving Machines site. When you watch the items drop, you’ll know that somewhere — whether in your hometown or across the globe — someone’s life just got a little brighter because of you.
If you’ve ever wondered how to make giving feel real and joyful, this is it!
Peace on earth, goodwill to all!
