These Vending Machines In RivCo Offer Opportunities To Help Those In Need

RIVERSIDE, CA — Shoppers passing by a particular vending machine at a mall in Riverside this holiday month may be inclined to stop and see what it has to offer — or shall we say — what you have to offer.

The Giving Machine just landed at the Galleria at Tyler in Riverside on Thanksgiving Day, offering opportunities to purchase essential items like clothing, medicine, food, and even livestock for those in need.

Donors can spend anywhere between $5 and $3,500 as part of an annual initiative propelled by the The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and Latter-Day Saints Charities called Light the World.

At Giving Machines worldwide, more than $48 million has been donated to numerous charities that the vending machines have on display since 2017.

On Thanksgiving Day, Huntington Beach Pier and Old Town San Diego also got their own giving machines. On Nov. 17, The Grove LA received one. And coming up on Dec. 12, the Outlets at San Clemente will get a Giving Machine.

Instead of snacks or Redbox DVDs, The Press-Enterprise reported that these machines hold boxes labeled things like "Infant Care Kit," "Family Dinner" or even "One Goat" — yes, really. And there's a reason for this.

A $150 donation can help Lifting Hands International buy a goat for refugees around the world who are fleeing from danger.

Goats can be bred and sold. Their milk is also a great source of protein, Jean Nowa told The Press-Enterprise.

"...by giving them goats, they are able to start to make something economically of themselves and help their families," she said.

In Riverside, the machines help get donations to the following organizations:

• Megan’s Wings
• Path of Life Ministries
• Riverside Meals on Wheels
• US Vets Inland Empire
• The American Red Cross.
• Caterina’s Club

This year marks the first time Riverside County has hosted a machine. Giving Machines can be found in 126 cities and 21 countries, according to the initiative.

Giving Machines will be at the Galleria at Tyler through Dec. 31. Find more information here.