Giving Machine Columbus

November 14 - December 6, 2025

Choose an item. Change a life. Light the World.

How does the Giving Machine work?

Imagine using a vending machine, but instead of purchasing a snack for yourself, you’re providing essential items like chickens for families in developing countries, or shoes for local family in crisis. That’s the Giving Machine.

Visit

Explore the Giving Machine, offering items for both local and global charities.

Choose

Select as many items as you wish to donate.

Give

Tap or insert your credit/debit card (no cash). 100% of your donations go directly to your chosen charity.

Tell other about your experience at the Giving Machine! Post a photo on social media and tag @GivingMachineColumbus or fill out our form.

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Past Charity Partners

What if giving to someone in need was as easy as buying a snack from a vending machine?

In 2017, the Giving Machine was born in response to a heartfelt question, "What if giving to someone in need was as easy as buying a snack from a vending machine?" The purpose of Light the World Giving Machines is to give anyone, no matter their age or means, the chance to actively participate in a giving experience.

Giving Machines have appeared in cities across the globe, capturing the attention of media, public officials, respected nonprofit organizations, business leaders, other faiths, and the public. In the past few years, hundreds of thousands of people have donated $33 million in goods and services to care for those in need—around the block or around the world.

Light the World is the annual Christmas initiative of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is an invitation for all to follow the example of Jesus Christ and be a light to others during the Christmas season.

Come visit the Giving Machine in Columbus during its inaugural year in the city! Located in Polaris Fashion Place Mall, the machines will be open to donations any time the mall is open.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Light the World?

Light the World, the annual Christmas initiative sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, invites all people to celebrate the birth and life of Jesus Christ and follow in His footsteps by serving others.

What is a Giving Machine?

One component of the Light the World initiative is the unique red vending machines, appropriately called Giving Machines. In partnership with Latter-day Saint Charities, Light the World Giving Machines provide a fun and memorable way for the public to give to those in need.

Where can I find a Giving Machine?

Giving Machines are in select cities throughout the world for a limited period of time in November and December. For a complete list of all locations, visit GivingMachine.org.

What can I purchase (or donate) from a Giving Machine?

Giving Machines offer a variety of essential items to assist those in need, such as food (meals and groceries), shelter, personal hygiene kits, clean water, clothing, beds, educational assistance, medical/eye/dental care, immunizations, personal development, counseling services, and even livestock (chickens, goats, pigs, or beehives).

What are the payment options? Are donations tax deductible?

Giving Machines accept debit/credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Discover and American Express) via tap or swipe and mobile payments (Apple Pay and Google Pay). Donations are tax-deductible. All charities are registered 501c(3) nonprofit organizations. You will receive a receipt for your documentation.

Where does my donation go?

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints covers all operational costs for the Light the World Giving Machine initiative. As such, participating nonprofit organizations receive 100% of every donation to purchase and deliver your selected item(s). Participating nonprofit organizations may use up to 10% of your donation for administrative costs.

Occasionally, it becomes necessary to make an item substitution to meet unexpected needs. When this occurs, replacement products or services remain in the same category as the original purchase.

How are operational costs covered?

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints generously underwrites all operating expenses for the Light the World Giving Machine initiative. This ensures that 100 percent of every donation is used for its intended purpose.

Donors have the opportunity to cover credit card fees if they desire. Otherwise, the Church will cover those fees.

How much have Light the World Giving Machines raised?

Since the first Giving Machine launched in 2017, hundreds of thousands of people have generously contributed more than US$33 million to assist those in need.

What items or charities require the most donations?

Every participating Giving Machine charity represents a cause with pressing needs. Before visiting a Giving Machine (or donating online), spend a few minutes learning about the vital work of these charities. We‘re confident that a cause will resonate with you and you will know that your gift will bless a life!

Can I donate online?

If visiting a physical Giving Machine is not feasible, you can donate directly to participating nonprofit causes at GivingMachine.org.

How can I get more involved?

Sharing your light with others goes far beyond a Giving Machine donation. Click here for ideas to do good and serve others this Christmas season.

For more information about the Light the World initiative, visit LightTheWorld.org.
For more information about Giving Machines, visit GivingMachine.org.

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