Charitable vending machines open just in time for Christmas

A church is aiming to get people in the Christmas spirit through new vending machines with a charitable twist

Imagine going to a vending machine but instead of buying a chocolate bar, you buy 200 meals for people in need, or supplies for an underprivileged school.

Now this has been made possible by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which has opened “Giving Machines” in 10 cities around the world during December, including New York, London and Manila.

These machines allow people to use their credit cards to make a range of charitable purchases, such as buying a sheep for a family in a developing country or an eye exam for a vulnerable child.

Charities including UNICEF, WaterAid and International Medical Corps are being supported through the initiative, which is part of the church’s #LightTheWorld campaign.  

The project began in 2017 in Salt Lake City, Utah, raising US$550,000 (A$800,000). Last year, the project had 92,190 transactions worth more than US$2.3 million dollars (A$3.4 million).

So far, the project has already raised close to US$1.1 million (A$1.6 million).

Spokesperson Malcolm Adcock told PA Media that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was very pleased to link with charity partners for the project.

“These special machines are innovative – it’s a new way of giving during this Christmas season,” Adcock said.