As the days tick away and Christmas draws closer, Utah County residents once again have the opportunity to donate to the Light the World Giving Machines at University Place in Orem.
The big red machines, sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, have become a tradition of giving during the Christmas season throughout the world.
According to the church, the 2022 Light the World initiative invites people to ask and act on one question — “Who needs my light today?”
These giving-focused vending machines offer a unique way to share light by serving and caring for others around the world. Giving Machines include items such as groceries, fresh water, child vaccines, beds, hygiene kits, farming equipment, medical care, job training, educational supplies, beehives and livestock, the church noted.
This year, more people than ever can participate as Giving Machines will expand to 28 locations around the world.
In addition to Orem, boxes placed in the U.S. mountain west can be found in Salt Lake City, Colorado, Arizona and Nevada.
Joining the 20 permanent locations are eight additional cities in the United States that are participating in a mobile Giving Machine experience. These mobile Giving Machines will visit cities in Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Florida and Arizona for a short stay before traveling to a new location.
As the number of worldwide locations expands, so does the number of participating nonprofit organizations. This year, nearly 125 local and global nonprofits will join with the church to care for and serve millions of people in need.
This year’s global nonprofit participants are:
- African Girls Hope Foundation
- American Red Cross
- Church World Service
- International Development Enterprises
- Lifting Hands International
- Mentors International
- UNHCR
- UNICEF
- Water For People
- World Food Program
Since the first Giving Machine appeared in 2017, total contributions have reached $15 million. As part of its ongoing global humanitarian efforts, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints covers all operational costs, ensuring that 100% of donations go to the charitable cause of your choice, according to a church statement.
Those unable to visit a physical machine can participate online at http://LightTheWorld.org/give.