The big red “Light the World Giving Machines” are becoming a tradition that garners financial help and more to local and international charities.

During Tuesday’s Provo Municipal Council meeting, three local nonprofits received notification of their donations — Community Action Services and Food Bank, The Food and Care Coalition and United Way of Utah County.

Tabitha’s Way, Sleep in Heavenly Peace and Lifting Hands will be recognized at the next American Fork City Council meeting. Lifting Hands is located in American Fork, but works internationally by helping distribute assorted supplies to refugees. They are also responsible for delivering goat donations.

Locally, the giving was substantial. About $1.1 million of giving came through the Orem machines at the University Place Mall.

Thousands of Utah County residents, and even more people worldwide, will be fed, clothed and cared for this coming year because of donations made at the Orem Light the World Giving Machines this past Christmas season, according to Mark Seastrand, a member of the Orem organizing team.

Sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Giving Machines are a unique and memorable way to serve others and follow the example of Jesus Christ, who “went about doing good,” Seastrand said.

From November through December, an estimated 425,000 people in 28 cities across six countries experienced the spirit of the Giving Machine. Approximately 75,000 of those visited Orem.

“In 2022, Light the World Giving Machines were in more cities than ever. From New York to Brisbane and Guatemala to Canada, people came by the tens of thousands, with family, friends, and neighbors, to experience what only Giving Machines can provide,” Karl Cheney, program manager, said in a press release. “The Orem organizing team worked for months to ensure that all who came felt the joy of giving to others. In addition, we are grateful to the University Place Mall for their tremendous support in hosting the Orem Giving Machines.”

Donations made from the Orem machines include:

• More than 308,000 meals, 2,500 food boxes and 303 years’ supply of food were donated to feed hungry and displaced persons.
• More than 5,500 children will receive school supplies and books.
• Nearly 3,400 children and refugees will receive shoes, socks, and winter clothing.
• More than 5,700 persons will benefit from vital hygiene supplies.
• More than 1,414 goats that will provide individuals and families in need with milk and cheese.

On a recent trip to eastern Europe to meet with Giving Machine recipients, Cheney reflected on how each donation makes a dramatic impact.

“Items purchased from a Giving Machine mean everything to those receiving. No one I met desires a handout. Instead, all they seek is a hand-up, and that’s exactly what these items provide. Every recipient asked me to bring back their deep love and sincere gratitude to all. I saw how each contribution, large or small, helps individuals and families become self-sufficient and care for those they love,” Cheney said.

As part of their ongoing humanitarian efforts, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints covers all Light the World Giving Machine operational costs, meaning 100% of every donation to be used as the donor intended.

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