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News Release

Lives Blessed by Lighting the World

Generous donations are made through Light the World Giving Machines

Generous giving from the recent holiday season will bless millions of people around the world, regardless of their nationality, race or religious affiliation. 

Providing individuals with vital, even life-sustaining, goods and services is a primary focus of Giving Machines. These unique and memorable red vending machines are part of the annual Light the World initiative sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and Latter-day Saint Charities. The initiative encourages all to follow the example of Jesus Christ by giving a little of ourselves to those in need.

From November through December 2021, Giving Machines were available in 10 U.S. cities. An estimated 300,000 people visited, with total donations exceeding US$5.8 million all going to feed, clothe and care for others.

2021 Highlights

  • More than 1.7 million meals and 14,000 boxes of fresh produce will feed the hungry.
  • Nearly 20,000 children will receive essential clothing.
  • More than 837,000 children will receive a polio vaccine.
  • More than 80,000 chickens will provide families with long-term nutrition and income potential.

Since 2017, Light the World Giving Machines have raised US$15 million. All administrative and operational fees, including all credit card transaction fees, are paid for by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This generous support allows each participating organization to receive 100 percent of every penny donated.

Starting this February, local and global charities will receive a check from Latter-day Saint Charities for the full amount donated to their cause.

Reflecting on those who will receive assistance, Sharon Eubank, president of Latter-day Saint Charities, said, “Each person who participated with the Giving Machines has given a loving and unselfish gift. We may not always meet the people we help, but we will be forever connected. I express sincere gratitude to all who helped make it happen. It’s such a Christ-like gesture to feed, clothe, educate and shelter brothers and sisters. In this simple way we express our love to the Savior and our love to others by following His example of caring.”

Preparations are already underway for the 2022 Light the World initiative and Giving Machines. Locations and dates will be announced later.

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