Bridge Street welcomes Light the World Giving Machine benefiting five local charities
HUNTSVILLE – Residents welcomed three bright red machines at Bridge Street Town Centre on Nov. 14. Donations at Light the World Giving Machines will benefit not only global causes but also five local charities.
Through Dec. 2, visitors can ‘purchase’ meaningful items that provide relief, education and hope for people in need. The Light the World Giving Machine is a reimagined ‘vending machine for good.’ Selections at a Giving Machine range from simple necessities, like eyeglasses for a person in need, to empowering resources, like clean water for a family across the world.
Donation amounts vary from $5 to $250. This range invites individuals, families and community groups of all sizes to participate. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints covers all operational costs.
“The Tennessee Valley has always been very generous with its charitable giving. This is a great initiative to show you care, not only for our community, but for global needs,” John Fellows said. Fellows is Regional Communication Director for The Church of Jesus Christ.
“There are so many wonderful cards to choose from, whether it’s shoes for a child, wheelchair ramps that provide home access for seniors, or chickens to help lift a family out of poverty,” Fellows said. “Our goal with the Giving Machine is to help visitors have an experience of feeling happiness, joy, charity and the light of Christ.”
This year’s Giving Machine will benefit five local charities and two global causes:
• The ELM or Expect Little Miracles Foundation — Helping create ‘little miracles’ in the lives of highly motivated individuals who are willing and capable of working.
• Enable Madison County – Assisting the aging and homebound population to live at home safely, independently and with dignity.
• First Stop, Inc. — Encountering homeless individuals where they are, connecting them to critical services and empowering them toward independent, sustainable living. “(People can) learn about non-profits and are given an easy, fun way to donate,” Chad Rodriguez, First Stop Executive Director, said.
• Free 2 Teach — Supporting teachers and students in Madison County by providing essential school supplies and classroom resources. “We work to bring the community together to equip kids. That’s why we’re so thrilled to partner with Giving Machine and their efforts to bring giving to the heart of the season,” Alison Kling, Free 2 Teach CEO, said.
• Kids to Love – Reaching out and wrapping loving arms around children through every step of their time in foster care with a wide variety of programs.
• Mentors International Lifting families around the world from poverty to self-reliance and prosperity through entrepreneurship and one-on-one mentoring.
• Water For Good — Helping communities establish access to reliable water and critical sanitation and hygiene practices to confirm sustainable change, empowered citizens and healthy futures.
Since these machines debuted in 2017, donors worldwide have contributed more than $44 million.
For more information, visit GivingMachine.org.
