Light the World: 490,000 Donations in 2024 Bring Hope to Many Worldwide

From November through December 2024, the bright red Light the World Giving Machines illuminated 107 cities across 13 countries on five continents, inspiring over 850,000 visitors to donate more than 490,000 items. Each donation will bring hope and support to individuals and families this year.

Launched in 2017 by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Light the World Giving Machine initiative continues to grow, making an impact on millions of individuals and families. Since the first Giving Machine was switched on, nearly US$50 million has been donated by children, teens, and adults across the globe — each contributing what they can to “love one another” (John 13:34) as the Savior Jesus Christ commanded. And every donation, large or small, is for someone they’ll never meet but to whom they will always be connected.

In the small village of Cuamba, Mozambique, expectant mothers once had to fetch water from the river, boil it, and carry it to the clinic when giving birth. But for these women, that problem has been solved. Thanks to generous donations made through Giving Machines, mothers and babies now have access to clean, running water.

Shortly after delivering her first child, one new mother said, “Washing my baby with clean water ensured he would not get sick. It gave me great peace of mind. It is wonderful having clean water here. To the person who made this possible, thank you.”

Wherever Giving Machines are located, the spirit of love and selfless service is present, and volunteers witness uplifting moments every day. For many, visiting a Giving Machine has become a cherished family tradition, and first-time visitors often feel tender emotions. Regardless, all who come feel connected to someone and experience the Savior’s love and grace.

After a family outing to a Giving Machine, one father said, “My wife and I want our kids to experience the joy of giving. Watching them choose a chicken, a book, or a baby blanket for someone else was a powerful lesson for them to learn. I’m so proud of my kids for sacrificing what little they have and loving it.”

2024 Highlights 

• 2 million meals will feed the hungry. 
• 500,000 children will be vaccinated against polio and measles. 
• 125,000 refugees will receive emergency food boxes. 
• 106,000 chickens, goats, and beehives will provide food and jobs for thousands of families and villagers. 
• 48,000 children and adults will receive essentials such as a warm jacket, shoes and socks, clothing for job interviews and school uniforms. 
• 43,000 children and adults will further their education and job skills with books, school supplies, financial assistance, scholarships, tutoring and more. 
• 14,000 hygiene kits will be distributed to refugees, young girls and others.  
• 10,200 individuals and families will receive groceries and produce for up to a month. 

Some 450 nonprofits participated in this year’s initiative — more than all previous years combined. For the first time, Giving Machines appeared in Asia (Hong Kong) and Africa (Nairobi, Kenya). After five years, they also returned to the United Kingdom.

“The annual Light the World Giving Machine initiative is a living miracle,” said Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. “This is such a beautiful and poignant way for the world to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and follow His example of love and service.”

One of the most remarkable aspects of this initiative is that the Church covers all operational expenses. As a result, 100% of every donation is used to bring the items purchased by donors to the recipients.  

Nonprofit organizations interested in participating must follow strict criteria, including using no more than 10% for administrative purposes.

The Light the World Giving Machine initiative will continue in the 2025 Christmas season. Until then, please visit GivingMachine.org to see how your gift is making a difference.