When we think of Christmas, images of Santa Claus, reindeer, and gift-laden sleighs often come to mind. But what if the holiday spirit could be reimagined—not as receiving, but as giving?

Across the globe, Light the World Giving Machines are transforming that idea into reality, turning the season of joy into an opportunity to help those in need. Created by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-

day Saints, these unique vending machines dispense generosity instead of goods, offering a simple yet profound way for individuals to bless strangers in need with the press of a button.

Since 2017, Giving Machines have appeared in over 100 locations across cities worldwide, facilitating the donation of millions of items valued at over $32 million. A glance through the glass reveals a world of possibilities: a $50 goat for a family in Africa or 200 ready-made meals for a Chicago homeless shelter for just $35.

The Church funds all operational expenses for the program, ensuring that every dollar donated directly provides the purchased item to those in need.

If you can imagine buying it, the campaign has created a way for you to give it. In fact, more than 500 local and international nonprofit organizations are participating in this year’s Giving Machine initiative. Items available include food, shelter, clothing, healthcare, education, job and career training, and livestock.

This year the machines have made it all the way to the Santa Claus House at the North Pole, in Alaska, where Santa himself attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, November 22, 2024

Lighting the World Through a Giving Machine

Each year, the Giving Machine pop-up campaign gains more attention and raises money for those in need. These machines are placed in key locations, allowing passers-by to give rather than to receive, which is always “better” anyway (Acts 20:35).

From Alaska to Florida, Michigan to Texas, the Church uses its transcontinental network to maximize awareness and giving for this important effort.

Five continents, 13 countries, and 107 cities around the world are all touched by the Christmas spirit through these mechanisms.

A swipe or a tap unlocks the magic of these ruby-red giving machines that allow others to give from $5 to $250. Each dollar will go to local charities working together for the grandiose “Light the World” holiday effort.

“Light the World is our message of glad tidings, which we’re assured will bring joy to all people because of Jesus Christ — because of His birth, because of His ministry, and because of His resurrection,” said Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles at the 2024 launch event in the Conference Center on Temple Square [Salt Lake City, Utah] on November 13.

“Just as angels declared words of great joy at His birth, we too in our own small way, gift by gift, can be angels in the lives of others as we extend the love of Jesus Christ to people near and far, and as we proclaim a witness of the Savior of the world.”

This year, they are working with over 500 local and international charitable organizations to maximize your dollars. To date, the campaign has raised over $32 million for charitable causes.

The global charities featured this year include The Academy for Creating Enterprise, American Red Cross, CARE, Catholic Relief Services, Church World Service, Days for Girls International, iDE Global, Lifting Hands International, MAP International, Mentors International, Right to Play, Save the Children, UNICEF, WaterAid, and the World Food Program. When someone makes a choice, the machine drops a postcard picturing your donation and a gift description.

Every city also has its own unique challenges and the Giving Machines also support local charities in the locations they are placed in. Examples include Find, Feed, and Restore , a nonprofit helping homeless families in Central Florida, and the Catholic Charities in San Diego.  And 100% of revenue is donated to the partner organizations serving the needy with toys, food, clothes, and sustenance.

Click here or watch the video below to learn more about the #LightTheWorld Christmas campaign or the exclusive Giving Machines.

This year, Giving Machines can be found in the following cities.