A unique initiative returns to Oklahoma City this holiday season, as the Light the World Giving Machines make their comeback, allowing individuals to purchase items to donate to those in need. The campaign, which will run from December 10, 2023 to January 1, 2024, will see these distinctive red vending machines stationed in Bricktown. Local organizers recently hosted a luncheon to promote the campaign and introduce the organizations benefiting from this year’s donations.
This year’s campaign builds on the success of last year’s inaugural event in Oklahoma City, which raised significant funds for local charities. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints initiated the Light the World Giving Machine movement in 2017, starting with just one machine. Since then, the initiative has expanded globally, generating over $50 million for various causes worldwide.
Beneficiaries and Impact of Donations
All proceeds from the Giving Machines, which are entirely allocated to charitable causes, will support both local and global organizations. This year, local beneficiaries include the City Rescue Mission, Hearts for Hearing, Cavett Kids Foundation, Center for Children and Families, and the Care Center. On the global front, donations will also aid the Special Olympics and Lifting Hands International.
Each Giving Machine offers a diverse range of 30 giving options. Donors can choose from items such as hearing aid fittings, twin beds for children, school kits for refugee children, athletic uniforms for the Special Olympics, and even chickens for vulnerable communities to help them become self-sufficient through food production.
At the luncheon, representatives from the beneficiary organizations shared insights into their missions and how the funds raised will be utilized. Last year’s campaign in Oklahoma City resulted in the donation of 3,500 items, which provided 7,470 meals to local food banks, 784 packs of baby wipes, 230 sets of socks and underwear for homeless teens, and more.
Community Engagement and Support
Erin Engelke, CEO of Remerge, highlighted the profound impact of the Giving Machines on the lives of the 75 to 100 mothers the organization serves annually. She emphasized the importance of community involvement, stating, “Just know if you are a part of this in any form or fashion as a beneficiary, donor, or volunteer, that you’re making a profound difference, not just to those in the nonprofit community, but to the community as a whole.”
The unique approach of the Giving Machines fosters a personal connection between donors and recipients, described by team member Tom Gray as “heart to heart.” This initiative not only facilitates charitable giving but also aims to create lasting change in the lives of those who benefit.
For further information about the Light the World Giving Machines and how to participate, interested individuals can visit www.givingmachineokc.org.
