The Light the World Giving Machines, vending machines that create a convenient way to give to donate during the Christmas season, is open at CoolSprings Galleria in Franklin, where they will remain through Jan. 1, 2023.
The Giving Machines looked like vending machines but instead of snacks or drinks, visitors can purchase items to donate to charities. They are located on the bottom floor of the mall by Men’s Belk.
Throughout December, the Giving Machines will be the setting for entertainment and other events.
This is the second year the Giving Machines are in Nashville. Last year, through 3,756 transactions, the Giving Machines raised over $195,000 for local and global charities.
Launched in 2017, Giving Machines are provided by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and provide a unique opportunity for the community to give to local and global charities.
Items in the Giving Machine range in price from $4 to $130, and include staples such as clothing, personal hygiene, meals, school supplies, medicine and even livestock. The Church covers all operational costs so that 100% of donations received go directly to the charity of choice.
Carla Parker, co-chair of the Giving Machines Nashville campaign, said the Giving Machines provide an opportunity to do something for someone who will never be able to pay you back.
“Last year I was volunteering at the Giving Machines when a man walked up and bought a mattress. He was leaving so quickly I thought maybe the machine had not worked property for him. Upon asking him, his response was, ‘No, I knew exactly what I wanted to buy. I remember when someone bought me and my brother a mattress. We all have more than enough to give.'”
“In a time when so much is about ‘getting,’ it’s rewarding to be a part of a collaborative effort that promotes the importance of serving and caring for others,” Parker said. “Each person who participates with the Giving Machines gives a loving and selfless gift.”
This year, the Nashville Giving Machines will feature items from five local charities and three international organizations.
- Angel Heart Farm provides equine therapy for families with children diagnosed with cancer.
- Achilles International provides opportunities for people with disabilities to live fuller lives through running.
- Catholic Charities for the Diocese of Nashville and Tennessee Resettlement Aid currently serve refugees.
- Graceworks Ministries serves low-income neighbors with basic life needs.
- African Girls Hope Foundation provides school-aged girls Africa with a quality formal education.
- Mentors International helps families by transforming generational poverty into sustainable self-reliance.
- Water For People address the global water crisis and equip communities with lasting access to clean water and sanitation services.
During the 2022 Christmas season, Light the World Giving Machines are in 26 cities worldwide.
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