7 Arizona cities set up ‘giving machines’ to streamline charity donations this holiday season

PHOENIX — Large red machines popping up across the Valley will make spreading holiday cheer as easy as swiping a credit card.

Those feeling generous ahead of Christmas can use “giving machines” to help those in need by donating food, medicine, clothing, baby gear and other essential items.

Although they look similar to vending machines, these giving machines have the opposite function.

Instead of choosing between chips, drinks or cookies, someone using a giving machine would choose between rows of cards with labels like “200 meals,” “School supplies” “One stroller” or “Two chickens.”

After deciding which type of donation they’d like to give, a user would then make a payment.

While they wouldn’t leave with a snack like they would after paying at a vending machine, they’d walk away with something else: the knowledge that they used this unique donation strategy to make someone else’s life better.

One of these machines will be open to the public on Nov. 15 at the Hale Centre Theatre Courtyard in Gilbert. Others will be available at the Westgate Entertainment District in Glendale on Nov. 16.

More giving machines will open in Flagstaff, Tucson, Prescott, Safford and Snowflake.

Who’s behind the giving machines in the Valley?

The machines come through the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Specifically, they’re set up through the church’s Light the World Giving Machine initiative.

It’s nothing new. In fact, the giving machines started in 2017. Donors have used them to give more than $32 million across the world.

Arizonans have contributed to that massive amount by donating more than $5 million to local and global charities.

What are some of the local nonprofits taking part in this charity initiative?

Every year, several local charities take part in the campaign. This year, Harvest Compassion Center is offering charity options through the West Valley giving machines for the first time. This food and clothing bank serves Phoenix and Maryvale families in need.

“All funds raised will provide food, hygiene, baby and clothing essentials for local families in Phoenix,” Thomas said in a Friday news release. “The holidays are our busiest time of year, and every contribution will allow us to keep up with the growing demand.”

Other charities include:

• Aris Foundation
• Cece’s Hope Center
• Kids Need to Read
• Save the Family
• Tempe Community Action Agency
• United Food Bank
• Childhelp
• Days for Girls
• Gathering Humanity
• Live and Learn
• Phoenix Rescue Mission

Those who can’t make it to the machines but still want to support the initiative can donate online.