INDIANAPOLIS — The “Giving Machine,” the popular vending machine that works in reverse by giving users an opportunity to donate items to charities, is opening to the public in two locations in the Indianapolis area. There will be at a soft opening on Black Friday, November 24 11 a.m. at Clay Terrace in Carmel. The Grand Unwrapping on “Giving Tuesday” November 28 will take place at Newfields in Indianapolis. Giving Machines will stay open at both Clay Terrace and Newfields through Jan. 7, 2024. Indianapolis is one of just 61 locations world-wide where the Light World “Giving Machines” have been placed.
Users will be able to walk up to the machine, slide their cards and make a purchase that will benefit a local or global charity. The vending machines allow users to purchase and donate items such as clothing, baby supplies, medicine, even chickens and goats for people in need, here in Indiana and around the world. 100% of all donations go directly to the participating charities.
The nonprofits selected this year are: Gleaners Food Bank, Boys & Girls Clubs of Indianapolis, Flanner House, American Red Cross, Lifting Hands, Mentors International, and iDE.
Since the Giving Machine opened 7 years ago, 1.5 million people have donated $21 million in goods and services to care for those in need—around the block or around the world. Visitors donate by purchasing items ranging in price from $3 to $300. Items can also include staples such as hygiene items, meals, support services, even livestock. Yes, you can swipe your card and for $55 you can purchase a baby goat that will be delivered to someone in need in a foreign country. Donations can also be made at lighttheworld.org/give for those not able to use the machines in person.
