What is Light the World?

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.

What is a Giving Machine?

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.

What makes this initiative so unique?

Rather than buying chocolate 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 chocolate bar will ever equal.

Where can I find a Giving Machine?

Light the World Giving Machines are in select cities throughout the world. For a complete list of this year’s Australia/NZ locations, visit GivingMachine.org.au

What can I purchase (or donate) from a Giving Machine?

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, counselling services, and even replacement fencing materials.

What are the payment options?

Giving Machines accept debit/credit cards (Visa, Mastercard and American Express) via tap or swipe (chip readers do not work) and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay, and so on).

Where does my donation go?

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.

How are operational costs covered?

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 (to be confirmed in Aust/NZ). Otherwise, the Church will cover those fees.

How much have Light the World Giving Machines raised?

Since the first Giving Machine launched in 2017, hundreds of thousands of people have generously contributed US$22 million to assist those in need.

What items or charities require the most donations?

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!

Can I donate online?

If visiting a physical Giving Machine is not feasible, you can donate directly to participating nonprofit causes at GivingMachine.org.au

How can I get more involved?

Sharing your light with others goes far beyond a Giving Machine donation. Visit the webpages below for ideas to do good and serve others this Christmas season.

* For more information about the Light the World initiative, visit lightheworld.org.

* For more information about Giving Machines, visit givingmachine.org.au

Why do you need to know my gender when I register?

This is required by the system we are using, it is not a requirement of the Church of JEsus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Where can I park?

Parking at Giving Machine Location - Parking at Eastland shopping centre is free for the first 3 hours and also for entry after 6pm. Up to 3.5 hours, the casual parking rate is $3 and up to 4 hours is $4. If you wish to stay on before or after your shift to do some shopping, Eastland management has offered volunteers who book in for 2 or more sessions, all day parking in their staff carpark on level 4 at a rate of $4 per day. During the registration process, your car registration details will be requested to allow parking in the staff car park. These details will be forwarded to the Eastland centre management. Please ensure that the car registration you give is for the car you wish to park in the Eastland staff car park on the day of your volunteering.

What should I wear?

Volunteer dress code - Giving machine volunteers should wear clean, presentable, modest and welcoming attire. Please avoid wearing hats or thongs.

How will people know I am a Giving Machine volunteer?

Volunteers will all be issued with a volunteer lanyard to identify them with the Giving Machine.

Where are the Giving Machines? 

We will be located on the Ground floor next to Santa Village that is outside Myer at Eastland Shopping Centre.