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.

One component of this initiative is the unique red vending machines, appropriately called 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.

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 digital 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. For a complete list of this year’s locations, visit GivingMachine.org.

Light the World Giving Machines offer a variety of essential items to assist those in need, such as food (meals and groceries), shelter, personal hygiene kits, clean water, clothing, beds, educational assistance, medical/eye/dental care, immunizations, personal development, counseling services, and even livestock (chickens, goats, pigs, or beehives).

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.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints covers all operational costs for the Light the World Giving Machine initiative. As such, participating nonprofit organizations receive 100% of every donation to purchase and deliver your selected item(s). Participating nonprofit organizations may use up to 10% of your donation for administrative costs.

Occasionally, it becomes necessary to make an item substitution to meet unexpected needs. When this occurs, replacement products or services remain in the same category as the original purchase.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints generously underwrites all operating expenses for the Light the World Giving Machine initiative. This ensures that 100 percent of every donation is used for its intended purpose.

Donors have the opportunity to cover credit card fees if they desire. Otherwise, the Church will cover those fees.

Since the first Giving Machine launched in 2017, hundreds of thousands of people have generously contributed more than US$33 million to assist those in need.

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.

Sharing your light with others goes far beyond a Giving Machine donation. Click here for ideas to do good and serve others this Christmas season.

• For more information about the Light the World initiative, visit LightTheWorld.org.

• For more information about Giving Machines, visit GivingMachine.org.