Midland Mall Welcomes Charitable ‘Giving Machines’ for Hassle-Free Holiday Donations

A new addition to Midland Mall for the Christmas season is more about giving than receiving. The installation of two “Light the World Giving Machines” offers customers a unique method to contribute to worthy organizations. These sophisticated vending machines function similarly to traditional ones, but instead of providing food and beverages, they provide users the opportunity to donate to national and international charity.

Customers can donate stuffed animals for kids going into foster care, potatoes for the East Side Soup Kitchen, or even livestock like a goat, according to a WNEM press release. “All of the money we raise is just this incredible opportunity for us to share and build bridges with our community,” stated Jessica Larsen, coordinator of Giving Machine. It all comes down to making connections with people and looking for tiny, easy ways to help. The machines will remain in the vicinity of the St. Laurent Brothers store within Midland Mall until December 31.

Since their launch in 2017, the Giving Machines have raised more than $33 million for causes all over the world, according to a story by MidMichiganNow. Jessica Larsen said to MidMichiganNow, “If you can pause for just a few minutes and come to the vending machine, you re really going to feel the impact that they have on you and your community.”

The idea, which includes card transactions that support necessities through the beneficiary charities, has been embraced by charitable organizations in the area.According to an ABC12 story, the machines are a part of a global network that spans more than 100 locations. The mall is now fully operational following a ribbon-cutting event on Tuesday. The program, which has 106 locations across 14 countries, offers a new and practical take on philanthropy at a time when consumerism and commercialism are all around us.

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