The Giving Machine is one component of the Light the World initiative. These unique vending machines provide a convenient, fun, and memorable way for the public to give to those in need.

Light the World is the annual Christmas initiative of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It invites everyone to celebrate the birth and life of Jesus Christ and follow His example of caring and serving others.

Instead of buying candy or snacks from a vending machine, individuals at a Giving Machine purchase goods and services for people in need, no matter who they are or where they live.

Available items vary from city to city but the Fresno Giving Machine has good and services for children, food and meals for the hungry, sewing machines for refugees to start their own businesses, and so much more. You can view a complete list of items available here.

The Giving Machine Fresno is located in River Park Shopping Center between PINK & White House Black Market. You can click here to get directions.

Giving Machines are also placed in select cities worldwide. You can find a Giving Machine closest to you at GivingMachine.org.

The Giving Machine Fresno will be open from December 11th, 2025 to January 2nd, 2026, and it’s open 24/7! Volunteers will be onsite from 9am to 9pm to assist you or answer questions.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints covers all operational costs, ensuring that 100 percent of every contribution goes to the participating nonprofit organizations. The Church receives no financial benefit from this initiative.

The Church provides each nonprofit with a summary of items donors purchased, and they have twelve months to fulfill these orders. Nonprofits may use up to ten percent of their Giving Machine receipts to cover overhead expenses, but most use nothing.

If an item substitution is necessary, replacements remain in the category of the original item.

Total Giving Machine contributions exceed $48 million.

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.

Every participating Giving Machine charity represents a cause with pressing needs. Before visiting a Giving Machine (or donating online), spend a few minutes learning about the vital work of these charities. We‘re confident that a cause will resonate with you and you will know that your gift will bless a life!

If visiting a physical Giving Machine is not feasible, you can donate directly to participating nonprofit causes at GivingMachine.org.