EL PASO, Texas – (KFOX14\/CBS4) \u2014 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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Instead of dispensing snacks or drinks, the machines allow users to buy specific charity items using credit or debit cards.<\/p>\n
“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.<\/p>\n
“Each donation is an instant act of kindness.”<\/p>\n
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. <\/p>\n
Two machines are available – one in English and one in Spanish – with donation options ranging from $5 to $100.<\/p>\n
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. <\/p>\n
The church covers all administrative costs, ensuring 100% of donations go directly to the charities.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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