Giving Machines

Elevate the spirit of giving with Volunteers of America and other local charities! Explore the innovative Giving Machines, where a simple act of kindness can make a lasting impact. Join us in spreading joy and creating positive change. For questions, email us at ngranger@voaches.org

Get Involved!

From November 24, 2024 to January 1, 2024, drop by Tyson’s Corner in Tysons, VA to bring light and joy to those in need this Holiday Season through the Giving Machines! When you give through these special red vending machines, you’re partnering with the following organizations to make a difference.

For questions, email us at ngranger@voaches.org.

Family Fun Activities!

Join us on Sat, December 7th from 10AM – 7PM at Tyson’s Corner Shopping Mall in Tysons, VA for some FREE holiday fun! Find us at the Giving Machines located next to the AMC Movie Theater.

  • Gingerbread house decorating
  • FREE holiday goodies
  • FREE holiday face painting
  • FREE holiday photos
  • Sweepstakes Giveaways

About The Giving Machines

The Giving Machine is a popular and visible part of Light the World, the annual Christmas initiative sponsored by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Light the World Giving Machines are in high-traffic areas of select cities worldwide. Each machine includes dozens of cards representing items needed by global and local nonprofit organizations, including Volunteers of America.

How They Work

Since 2016, Light the World has invited the global community to extend love and kindness by serving others. These customized red vending machines provide a unique, memorable, and fun way to assist the needy—around the block or around the world.

After looking through the options and making a purchase, donors watch as cards fall into a sealed collection bin. They smile, take pictures, post experiences, and relish in knowing that the life of someone they’ll never meet is now a little more bright. 

Each item varies in price (from $2 on up), but each has tremendous value. Giving Machines allow individuals to purchase groceries and meals, clean  and sustainable water, safe shelter, clothing and shoes, blankets and beds, educational assistance, healthcare and counseling services, immunizations, hygiene kits, job training, and the ever-popular livestock (chickens, goats, pigs, and beehives).

Since the first Giving Machine appeared in 2017, hundreds of thousands of people have visited, contributing $15 million (USD) to assist the homeless and hungry, the uneducated and unfortunate, the naked and neglected — regardless of race, nationality, or religious affiliation.

How They Support Volunteers of America

This year, Volunteers of America Chesapeake & Carolinas has been designated as one of several nonprofits to receive donations made through the Giving Machines! This means that when you visit a machine, you can select from a wide variety of items including the following that will bring hope and joy to vulnerable men, women and children Volunteers of America supports.

In the News

New ‘giving machine’ in Arlington mall invites shoppers to purchase items that give back

WJLA ABC7 News DC

Vending for the holidays: A unique way to give this season

WTOP News

New vending machine designed for donations

WJLA ABC7 News DC

Ballston Quarter to host charitable vending machines this holiday season

ARL Now

Giving Machines open in Arlington, VA

NBC 4 Washington

Giving Machines debut in Virginia for Giving Tuesday

FOX 5

Where To Find Them

Tyson’s Corner Shopping Mall
1961 Chain Bridge Rd
Tysons, VA 22102

Nov 23, 2024 – Jan 1, 2024

To learn more about the Light the World Giving Machines or to find a location near you please visit LightTheWorld.org

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