Philadelphians can embrace the gift of giving in a new way this holiday season.
The Giving Machines — ‘vending machines’ that work in reverse by giving users an opportunity to donate much-needed items to local and global charities — are headed to the Fashion District.
Philadelphia’s three Giving Machines will raise money for six charities this year, including Philabundance, Interfaith Philabundance/ Zones of Peace, Mt. Airy Church of God of Christ, Ministry of Caring, Days for Girls, and Mentors International.
“We are dedicated year-round to supporting our local community, helping charities and supporting families in need,” said Fashion District General Manager Ryan Williams in a statement. “By hosting The Giving Machines, we are able fulfill that mission and invite shoppers to give to people in real need this time of year. The Giving Machines are both meaningful and fun — they are an innovative and immersive way to engage our visitors.”
How it works
Every machine includes cards representing goods and services that participating nonprofit organizations have requested. Visitors make donations by purchasing items ranging in price from $5 to $100, including staples like toiletries, baby supplies, school supplies, meals, blankets to the local area and livestock, medical supplies, and water kits to help global needs.
The Giving Machines will debut inside The Cube at Fashion District Philadelphia (9th and Market entrance) during a special celebration on Monday, Nov. 18, at 11 a.m. The Giving Machines will remain through Dec. 4.
On Friday, Nov. 22, at 6 p.m., the Giving Machines will host Eagles Night with Philadelphia Eagles’ players Britain Covey, Tanner McKee Laekin Vakalahi, and Offensive Coordinator Kellen Moore. There will be additional special events, live music, family theme nights, holiday story time, local youth choirs and more.
The Giving Machines will be open during regular mall hours.
Spreading joy
“The Light the World Giving Machines provide a great experience for all — literally blessing lives on both sides of the vending machine glass, the giver and the receiver — more than any bag of chips or candy bar could do,” said Kate Sookhoo, of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which is sponsoring the machines. “The Giving Machine gives users an opportunity to donate much needed items for people here in Philadelphia and globally.”
Since the first Giving Machine appeared in 2017, contributions have totaled more than $32 million. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints covers all operating costs, ensuring that 100% of every donation goes to the designated participating nonprofit.
“Last year during our inaugural year with The Giving Machines, I watched as parents and their children donate and use the machines together,” said Williams. “I hope visiting Fashion District Philadelphia for The Giving Machines is a new holiday tradition that continues year after year for local families.”
Donations to charities featured in the Giving Machine can also be made at lighttheworld.org/give for those unable to come to the machines in person. All donations go directly to the participating charities.
