The machines are vending machines where people areable to purchase food, clothing, baby supplies, medicine or chickens for a family in a developing country.
Visitors to Glendale and to the East Valley machine in Gilbert can provide an instant act of service by donating the machines. With a card swipe, individuals can purchase items from $5-$150 for people in need locally and around the world.
The West Valley launch event will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 16, at the Westgate Entertainment District, 9405 W. Hanna Lane, Glendale. The machines will be available through Jan. 1.
The #LightTheWorld Giving Machines started in 2017 and have raised more than $32 million in worldwide donations for local and global charities. Arizonans have donated more than $5 million to local and global charities through the Giving Machines.
This year’s effort will include more than 100 locations around the world. That includes machines stationed in Flagstaff, Gila Valley, Prescott, Silver Creek and Tucson.
Charities participating in the #LightTheWorld Giving Machines in the West Valley include:
- Days for Girls (international charity);
- Harvest Compassion Center;
- IDE (international charity);
The local charity partners have been chosen for the impact they make in the lives of Arizonans.
Local charity Harvest Compassion Center is participating in the West Valley Giving Machines for the first time this year.
"The holidays are our busiest time of year, and every contribution will allow us to keep up with the growing demand," CEO and Executive Director Nicolee Thomas said. "Thank you for helping us feed, clothe and love our local neighbors."
Donations can also be made at lighttheworld.org/give for those unable to come to the machines in person. All donations go directly to participating charities.
