Something fun is coming to Knoxville this month and you are going to want to take your family! Light the World Giving Machines will be outside of At Home in Turkey Creek from November 15th to November 28th.
There will be a Ribbon Cutting event on November 15th at 11 am that will feature live music, refreshments, introductions of the local charities featured in the machines, and the opportunity to be one of the first to give! The Launch Party is at 6:30 pm on November 15th where there will be more entertainment, including Smokey the UT mascot!
So what are they?
The unique red vending machines, appropriately called Giving Machines, provide a fun and memorable way for the public to give to those in need. Rather than buying candy or snacks for oneself, Giving Machines allow people to purchase an item for someone else—across town or around the world. After the payment process is complete, a card representing the item drops into an enclosed display bin. The generous donor then leaves with a digital receipt and a feeling of joy and gratitude that no candy bar will ever equal.
What can I purchase (or donate) from a Giving Machine?
Light the World Giving Machines offer a variety of essential items to assist those in need, such as food (meals and groceries), shelter, personal hygiene kits, clean water, clothing, beds, educational assistance, medical/eye/dental care, immunizations, personal development, counseling services, and even livestock (chickens, goats, pigs, or beehives).
What are the payment options?
Giving Machines accept debit/credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express) via tap or swipe (chip readers do not work) and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay, and so on). In some countries, both cards and cash are accepted.
What charities can we donate to?
The local charities featured in the Giving Machines include:
- Bridge Refugee Service
- Knox Education Foundation
- Metro Drug Coalition
- Catholic Charities of East Tennessee
The global charities featured are:
- American Red Cross
- African Girls Hope
- CARE
Where does my donation go?
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints covers all operational costs for the Light the World Giving Machine initiative. As such, participating nonprofit organizations receive 100% of every donation to purchase and deliver your selected item(s). Participating nonprofit organizations may use up to 10% of your donation for administrative costs.
