BLOOMINGTON — A spirit of generosity will take center stage this holiday season at the Bloomington “Light the World” Giving Machine launch at 10 a.m. on Saturday, November 22, 2025, in Fountain Square Mall, 101 W. Kirkwood Avenue.
The free community kickoff event will feature remarks from Monroe County Council President Jennifer Crossley, State Representative Dave Hall, Monroe County Sheriff Ruben Marté, and State Treasurer Daniel Elliott.
The community will also enjoy musical performances, brief messages from charity partners, a ceremonial ribbon-cutting, and fun photo opportunities.
“The Giving Machine grants a person an opportunity to be part of a global humanitarian effort, in a way that’s as easy as buying a snack from a vending machine,” says Josh Brewer, a Congressman with the IU Student Government and Giving Machine committee member. “Our family is excited to fully embrace the spirit of Christmas to give life-sustaining help to those in need.”
The Light the World Giving Machine is a special vending machine where donors can purchase items for those in need, with options including food, clean water, clothing, and shelter. Other possible purchases include hygiene kits, medical and dental care, educational support, and livestock such as chickens, goats, or beehives.
- Essential goods: These include items such as meals, groceries, clothing, shoes, bedding, and hygiene kits.
- Health and wellness: Some machines offer health-related items and services, such as medical and dental care, vaccines, or prenatal care packages.
- Education and development: Purchases can also support education through items like school supplies or fund longer-term development through business mentoring and sewing materials.
- Livestock: Donors can purchase animals like chickens, goats, sheep, or pigs, which can help provide food and income.
- Other items: Unique options have included soccer balls, toys, and even solar lamps for refugees.
When you use a Giving Machine, you are not buying a physical item dispensed from the machine; instead, the donation goes to a partner charity, which then purchases and delivers the item to those in need.
Approximately $50 million USD has been donated in the form of essential items and services to countless millions in need. The impact of the Giving Machine Initiative is real and is being felt worldwide—from large cities to small villages.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints launched the “Light the World” Initiative in 2016 and the Giving Machine in 2017. The Church covers all costs associated with the Giving Machine, ensuring 100% of donations go to the selected charities. This initiative offers both givers and receivers the chance to experience “good tidings of great joy” (Luke 2:10).
The Giving Machine will be in Fountain Square Mall through December 9. Hours are Monday-Friday 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
For updates, follow @GivingMachineBloomington on Instagram and @Giving Machine Bloomington on Facebook, or visit GivingMachine.org.
