Light the World, the annual Christmas initiative sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, invites all people to celebrate the birth and life of Jesus Christ and follow in His footsteps by serving others and becoming instruments in His hands to Light the World with expressions of goodness, kindness, and love.

One component of the Light the World initiative is the unique red vending machines, appropriately called Giving Machines. Over 100 cities around the world host these Giving Machines. In partnership with Latter-day Saint Charities, Light the World Giving Machines provide a fun and memorable way for the public to give to those in need.

The original Giving Machines are large, red vending machines that will be located inside Kansas City’s Union Station's Grand Hall, by the post office at 30 W Pershing Rd, Kansas City, MO 64108. 

They will be available between November 22k 2025 and January 1, 2026. But unlike normal vending machines, the Giving Machines are not about getting, but giving. Instead of getting yourself a candy bar or soda, you can donate to local and global charities with the push of a button. 

And with price-points from just a few dollars and up, it’s an easy way for everyone to give this holiday season. 

ONE HUNDRED PERCENT OF ALL DONATIONS FLOW TO THE CHARITIES FEATURED IN THE GIVING MACHINES

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 to digital, tax-deductible receipt and a feeling of joy and gratitude that no candy bar will ever equal.

Light the World Giving Machines are in select cities throughout the world. The Giving Machines KC are located inside Union Station's Grand Hall, by the post office at 30 W Pershing Rd, Kansas City, MO 64108.

This year’s local charities include: Harvesters Community Food Network, Halo, Hillcrest Transitional Housing, Kansas City Science City, Mayor’s Christmas Tree Association, Catholic Charities, and Happy Bottoms. Participating organizations may propose other charities for inclusion.

International options include CARE and Days for Girls. 

Items include:

• Meals and groceries
• Hygiene and menstrual care items
• Clothing and bedding
• Diapers and wipes
• Rent and utility assistance
• Goats
• Educational supplies and scholarships

Giving Machines accept debit/credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express) via tap or swipe and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay, and so on).

Nonprofits receive 100% of donations. Up to 10% may be used for administrative costs.

All operating expenses are covered by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Donors may choose to cover credit card fees; otherwise, the Church will cover them.

Since 2017, Giving Machines have raised nearly $50 million globally. Kansas City’s Machines have raised over $1 million since 2021.

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!

Learn more about this year's charities

Yes. Those unable to visit in person can donate directly through participating nonprofit websites or through the Kansas City Giving Machines website.

Encourage employees to visit a Giving Machine and donate. Consider matching their donations. Host a 'Day at the Giving Machines' to increase impact.

Beyond donating, individuals can share light through service. Visit:

• LightTheWorld website
• GivingMachine website
• JustServe website

Charities must apply to be considered. They must be transparent regarding how donations will be used. Approved charities collaborate with local Giving Machine leaders to define their donation items. Machines typically support both local and global causes.

> Apply now!

Yes, apply now!  The application deadline is February 28, 2026.

This year, Kansas City has the opportunity to share the new Traveling Digital Giving Machines to enable local organizations to further share this holiday giving tradition with employees, customers, and the public at additional locations across the Kansas City metropolitan area.

The Traveling Digital Giving Machines bring the opportunity to give to worthy charities while on the premises of a variety of Kansas City organizations and locations. These Machines are available to add holiday cheer to local corporate celebrations and charitable events. Rather than buying snacks for oneself, the Machines allow people to purchase items for someone else—across town or around the world. After payment, a card representing the item drops into an enclosed display bin. The donor receives a digital receipt and a joyful experience.

The two Traveling Digital Giving Machines in Kansas City will be located at various public and private locations throughout the metropolitan area from mid-November 2025 through January 1, 2026.

Through outreach by members of the local Traveling Digital Giving Machines KC team, Kansas City organizations agree to host the Machines at agreed-upon dates, times, and locations. Organizations are selected based on alignment with the charitable goals of the initiative.

No formal contract is required—just a mutual agreement. However, if an organization prefers written documentation, we are happy to provide it.

The specific dates, times, and locations are chosen collaboratively between the participating organization and the Giving Machines team. Ideally, the Machines will be placed in well- trafficked, welcoming, and easily accessible areas.

Traveling Digital Giving Machines must be indoors or protected from inclement weather. Each Machine measures approximately 75 inches tall, 40 inches wide, and 2 feet deep, and weighs about 300 pounds There should be space for people to form a small line in front of the Machines, truck access, and a stable electrical outlet.

While a representative will not remain onsite at all times, daily check-ins will occur, and support is available as needed. Volunteer hosts may be arranged upon request.

Duration will vary. Some locations may host a TDGM for a single event; others for several days. The schedule of locations will be finalized by late October 2025.

A representative will typically be available to address issues.

Organizations incur no expenses beyond minimal electricity usage. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints covers transportation and maintenance. Organizations are responsible for promoting the event to their employees or customers. Marketing materials are available as required.

No. The Giving Machines initiative assumes all liability for damage to the Machines.

Traveling Digital Giving Machines accept credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AmEx) via tap or swipe, and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.).