EL PASO, Texas – (KFOX14/CBS4) — A unique vending experience arrived in downtown El Paso Saturday morning, where residents can purchase everything from farm animals for families overseas to groceries for local neighbors in need.
The Light the World Giving Machines opened to the public at 11:00 a.m. on November 22 at San Jacinto Plaza, offering what organizers call a new way to give back this holiday season.
Instead of dispensing snacks or drinks, the machines allow users to buy specific charity items using credit or debit cards.
“This is one of the most fun and meaningful ways to give back,” said Timothy Jennings, President of the El Paso Stake of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which sponsors the initiative.
“Each donation is an instant act of kindness.”
The machines will operate daily from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. through December 9 on the patio of the El Paso Community Foundation building at 333 N. Oregon Street.
Two machines are available – one in English and one in Spanish – with donation options ranging from $5 to $100.
Local beneficiaries include El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank, The Children’s Grief Center of El Paso, and The Center Against Sexual & Family Violence, among others.
The church covers all administrative costs, ensuring 100% of donations go directly to the charities.
Since the program’s launch in 2017, Giving Machines have generated over $32 million in donations worldwide. This year, El Paso joins more than 100 cities hosting the machines.
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