The Light the World Giving Machine, giving-focused vending machines sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, come back to Central Florida now to Dec. 14 at the Altamonte Mall.
The unique vending machines offer donors the opportunity to purchase in-demand donation items on behalf of those in need locally and globally. The machines feature items such as newborn baby kits, fruit trees, counseling sessions, a mobile shelter and bedtime story books to provide the recipients with relief, dignity, greater self-reliance and joy.
In 2024, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints placed the Giving Machine in 107 cities across 13 countries on five continents. Since the Church launched the first Giving Machine in 2017, 2.4 million people have donated more than US$50 million blessing millions of lives. They have made charitable giving more accessible and inclusive than ever.
Local highlights from the $100,000 donated at the Central Florida Giving Machine in 2024:
- 213 children’s bed supplies
- 347 toys
- 361 baby care necessities
- 508 live chickens
- 380 senior care items
- 299 showers for the homeless
- 208 meals for a year
“This Christmas season, the Giving Machine is more than just a vending machine—it’s a reminder that even the smallest act of generosity can reflect the love of Jesus Christ,” said Elder Daniel P. Amato, a regional leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints serving Central and South Florida. “In a world that often feels divided, these machines unite us in compassion and love. Each donation is a quiet but powerful way to lift someone’s burden and bring the light of Christ into their life.”
Instead of offering a soda or snack, the Giving Machine at the Altamonte Mall will feature dozens of unique goods and services for purchase that were requested by local nonprofits. The groups that will benefit include Domestic Abuse Council of Volusia, North Brevard Charities, True Health, Christian Service Center and Special Hearts Farm. Prices for individual items range from $5 to $250. Donors can even type in 777 to purchase one of everything in the machine. The Giving Machine will also be featured in Clearwater, FL December 17 – January 4 at the Crumbl Cookie storefront located at 2719 Gulf to Bay Blvd, Clearwater, FL
“True Health is honored to be included in the generous Light the World Giving Machine program. All donations received go toward essential healthcare services and resources for adults, children, seniors, and pregnant women we serve who are living below the federal poverty level.” said Janelle Dunn, CEO of True Health.
One of the most remarkable aspects is how the Church covers all program operational expenses ensuring participating nonprofits receive 100% of the collected funds. For more information about the Giving Machine at the Altamonte Mall or others around the world, please visit https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/comeuntochrist/light-the-world/giving-machines.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Central Florida
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was established in 1830. Currently the Church has more than 17 million members in more than 30,000 congregations worldwide with global headquarters in Salt Lake City, Utah. It also has more than 25,000 members and 64 congregations in the Central Florida Area.
