FRESNO, Calif. (FOX26) \u2014 The Giving Machine Fresno is officially wrapping up its first season in the Central Valley, and organizers say the community response was overwhelming.<\/p>\n
The interactive vending machine popped up at River Park Shopping Center during the holiday season, giving people a simple, hands-on way to give back.<\/p>\n
Over 23 days, more than 8,800 people stopped by, purchasing more than 9,000 items for those in need.<\/p>\n
Instead of snacks or drinks, the Giving Machine let visitors buy things like meals, backpacks, healthcare supplies and family assistance, with every dollar going straight to local and international nonprofit organizations.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis season showed just how generous our community is,\u201d said Kristin Leonard, team lead for Giving Machine Fresno. \u201cPeople didn\u2019t just give, they stopped to learn about the nonprofits and the real impact their donations would have.\u201d<\/p>\n
Local organizations like Fresno Immigrant Refugee Ministries, Catholic Charities Diocese of Fresno, Poverello House, Hinds LifeCare and Family Healing Center all benefited, along with international partners Mentors International and USA for UNHCR.<\/p>\n
Organizers say the Giving Machine quickly became more than just a donation spot, it turned into a place where people could connect with causes close to home and around the world.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Giving Machine created a real connection between our community and the people we serve,\u201d said Steve Weakland with Hinds LifeCare. \u201cSeeing people choose specific items to help meet real needs was incredibly meaningful.\u201d<\/p>\n
With its first season now complete, organizers are thanking volunteers, nonprofit partners and everyone who stopped by to give.<\/p>\n
They say talks are already underway about bringing the Giving Machine back to Fresno in the future.<\/p>\n